Research Associate

About Us

The Frost Lab investigates the role of mobile genetic sequences, known as transposable elements, in the biology of the placenta. We are based in the Medical and Molecular Genetics Dept at King’s College London, in the Tower Wing of Guy’s Hospital, in London Bridge. We are an enthusiastic and friendly team, with links across London and the UK in the transposon, epigenetics and placental biology fields, and the successful candidate will be embedded in a supportive and collaborative environment. 

About the role

We are looking for a motivated postdoctoral researcher with a strong background in computational biology and genetics. The successful candidate will apply a range of approaches to analyse, integrate and interpret large-scale public and in-house-generated genetic and epigenetic datasets to investigate the role of transposable elements in placental development and pregnancy.

Applicants should hold (or be near completion of) a PhD in computer science, systems biology or related discipline, or a PhD in biological sciences but with strong programming skills. The candidate should have the ability to independently drive a multifaceted project, as well as work collaboratively within a team. Experience analysing large-scale datasets and a good understanding of statistical and quantitative methods are all advantageous. Applicants should also have a keen interest in the regulation of gene expression, evolution, and the molecular basis of human disease; excellent organisation and communication skills, with the ability to write for scientific publication.

The post-holder is expected to independently manage and execute day to day computational research, with specific aims and approaches discussed with the PI. Overarching aims will be to identify genetic and epigenetic signatures of repeat sequences in normal and abnormal placental tissue in humans and other primates, using the wealth of previously published information, including genetic data and metadata from large biobanks as well as smaller scale studies.

The role will include involvement in individual and collaborative research projects, with opportunities to both write up the research for publication and develop external funding proposals, as well as present your research at conferences. The integration of cutting-edge advances in the field into your work, as well as exceptional organisation of files, scripts and datasets will both be important, as well as supporting other researchers in the team.

This is a full-time, in-person post (35 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract for 3 years.

Research staff at King’s are entitled to at least 10 days per year (pro-rata) for professional development. This entitlement, from the  Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, applies to Postdocs, Research Assistants, Research and Teaching Technicians, Teaching Fellows and AEP equivalent up to and including grade 7. Visit the  Centre for Research Staff Development for more information.

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