Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Full-time: 35 hours per week, 100% on-site

Fixed-term: for 36 months

The Opportunity:

This is an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic translational research lab that has expertise in working with organoids.

The position is for a senior post-doctoral research scientist and is focused on supporting the development of a novel cardiac drug screening platform, with the primary responsibility being the generation of human stem cell–derived (iPSC) cardiospheroids, subsequent biochemical and molecular testing and engagement with the development of a commercialisation strategy. The post is based at the University of Edinburgh, and the post-doctoral research scientist will work under the guidance of Professor Shareen Forbes.

The post-holder will produce and test the cardiospheroids using the novel biomedical instrument developed which is currently at the prototype stage which has been designed by the investigators to overcome bottlenecks in screening for drug-induced cardiac arrhythmias. Testing will include comparison of biochemical and molecular status with electrical responses from the cardiospheroids with standard electrophysiological measurements and other modalities working alongside electrophysiologists. Following drug exposure and manipulation cardiospheroids will be further assessed with downstream analyses using a range of molecular/cellular techniques. 

The post holder will work closely with engineers at Heriot-Watt University (Dr. Euan Brown) and scientists in drug discovery (Professor Neil Carragher) and their respective teams in order to support the further development of the device for commercial readiness including the development of the device with an automated throughput system for cardiospheroid handling.

The role also includes participation in the implementation of a Quality Management System to ensure ISO compatibility. The post-doctoral research scientist will contribute to report writing, IP reviews, business planning, and regulatory documentation, working alongside experts in commercialisation and regulatory development.

The position is supported by a British Heart Foundation Translational Award to develop a diagnostic platform for screening new drugs for cardiac arrhythmias, with the goal of commercial readiness. The project offers a unique opportunity for a senior researcher to understand the steps necessary for successful commercialisation.

The laboratory also hosts projects funded by charitable foundations and industry, including work on stem cell–derived islets, and comprises a multidisciplinary team of post-doctoral researchers, clinician scientists, technicians, coordinators and PhD students.

Your skills and attributes for success:

• Experience in stem cell organoid generation. 
• Experience in a wide range of molecular biology techniques, imaging software and statistical skills. 
• Ability to work in a team and communicate ideas well between disciplines.
• Ability to think critically and direct own research independently. 
• Record of publications.

Informal enquiries are welcomed and can be addressed to Professor Shareen Forbes, Shareen.Forbes@ed.ac.uk

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