Research Associate in Lymphatic Biology

About the role:

As a MRC-funded Postdoctoral Research Associate you will spearhead an innovative investigation into the transcription factor ERG to determine its role as a master regulator of lymphatic identity and immune response. Working at a world-leading institution within a high-impact collaborative environment, you will employ in vivo models with state-of-the-art molecular and cellular assays to uncover how ERG functions as an "immune gatekeeper" during both steady-state and inflammatory challenges. Ultimately, your findings will define a new roadmap for therapeutic targets to treat debilitating conditions like primary lymphoedema, directly bridging the gap between fundamental molecular science and patient benefit.

What you would be doing:

In this role, you will lead investigations into how the transcription factor ERG regulates lymphatic identity and immune cell trafficking. Your responsibilities will include performing in vivo functional assays to quantify lymphatic drainage and immune cell trafficking. You will utilize single-cell transcriptomics and high-resolution multiplexed imaging to map cellular landscapes in mouse and human tissues. Additionally, you will conduct mechanistic studies to identify the role of ERG in lymph node maintenance. Throughout, you will develop advanced analytical skills and benefit from a dynamic and collaborative research environment.

What we are looking for:

We are looking for an ambitious and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a PhD in vascular biology, immunology, or cell biology to join this collaborative project. While a full person specification is available in the job description, we are specifically looking for candidates who can demonstrate:

In Vivo Expertise: Advanced techniques using genetically modified mice, including functional lymphatic assays and immune trafficking models.

High-Resolution Imaging: Proficiency in spatially-resolved multiplexed imaging and confocal whole-mount tissue analysis.

scRNA-seq: Experience designing 10x Genomics experiments and performing computational data analysis.

Molecular Biology: Skills in CRISPR/siRNA inhibition and in vitro functional assays.

Data Analysis: Ability to interpret high-dimensional datasets to identify gene signatures and cellular interactions.

Collaborative Mindset: Proactive approach to sharing expertise and publishing high-quality manuscripts.

Ambition: Driven to acquire new skills and develop an independent academic research career.

What we can offer you:

By joining this project, you will launch your career as an independent investigator through several key benefits:

• High-Impact Collaboration: Work across a unique partnership between Imperial College London and the University of Nottingham, gaining expertise in ERG transcriptional regulation and immune response.
• Cutting-Edge Technology: Gain mastery of state-of-the-art platforms, including 10x Genomics for single-cell transcriptomics and spatially-resolved multiplexed imaging.
• Translational Impact: Contribute to clinically relevant research alongside City St. George’s to identify therapeutic targets for conditions like primary lymphoedema.
• Scientific Recognition: Lead the dissemination of findings through high-quality manuscripts and international conference presentations.
• Leading Benefits: Receive a sector-leading salary and 41 days of annual leave.
• Career Structure: This 36-month post provides dedicated support to develop independent research ideas for future senior academic roles.

Further Information

This is a Full time fixed-term, fixed -term ( 3 years) role based at our White City Campus.

If you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr Graeme Birdsey (g.birdsey@imperial.ac.uk). Lab webpage: https://profiles.imperial.ac.uk/g.birdsey

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