Research Associate

Location: Hammersmith Campus

About the role:

Applications are invited for a 3-year postdoctoral research position to work in the Cell Cycle Control team led by Alexis Barr (MRC LMS). We are seeking a talented and ambitious wet-lab scientist to deliver a new, innovative and exciting research project investigating the differences and similarities in cell cycle dysregulation between different cancer types.

For more information please visit https://www.barrlab.com, see this article, or contact Alexis Barr (abarr@ic.ac.uk).

The Barr group studies the mechanisms that control entry into and exit from the cell cycle, with a focus on quiescence entry and exit. A major goal of our research is to understand how these mechanisms become dysregulated in cancer cells, how that drives tumorigenesis and how we can target these dysregulated mechanisms to halt cancer cell proliferation. This postdoctoral researcher will lead a new, CRUK-funded project to experimentally test how specific cell cycle alterations in different cancer types contribute to tumorigenesis and tumour evolution and identify where these changes impart a therapeutic vulnerability. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with dry-lab scientists within the team of Maria Secrier (Dept. of Genetics, UCL), to formulate hypotheses which they will then experimentally test in the lab, using appropriate model systems (cell lines, organoids, tumour tissue).

What you would be doing:

The successful candidate will have experience of performing cutting-edge studies to understand detailed molecular mechanisms in cells. They will have experience of working with human (or mammalian) cells and/or tumour tissue. They must have strong molecular biology skills and enjoy working collaboratively and, ideally, have experience in functional genomic assays (e.g. CRISPR screens) and techniques used to probe chromatin interactions and organisation (e.g. CUT&RUN, ATAC-seq). You will have the opportunity to work at the cutting-edge of human mechanistic and translational research in a vibrant and supportive environment with world-class research facilities. You will be encouraged to contribute to other projects within the Barr and Secrier teams. There are excellent opportunities for professional development – taking full advantage of collaborations, facilities and informatic expertise across MRC LMS and Imperial College. We will provide training and mentoring to support your career aspirations.

What we are looking for:

• A PhD in a field related to cell biology, cancer research, genome stability, functional genomics, or a similar discipline
• An ability to drive your own research from planning, experimentation and analysis
• Experience of working with human/mammalian cells
• A proven track record of producing publication-quality research in a relevant field (e.g. cell or molecular biology, cancer biology, genome stability, functional genomics)
• Experience in uncovering cellular mechanisms at a high-level of detail
• Experience of working collaboratively
• Experience of molecular biology techniques (e.g. cloning, western blotting, immunoprecipitation, qPCR)
• Strong interest in cancer biology

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information

This is a full-time, fixed term post for 3 years.

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