Research Associate in Lung Immunopathology

About the role:

The role has been established as a collaborative project between the Lloyd and Molyneaux labs and funded by GSK. We are interested in the complex cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive disease pathogenesis and reduced lung function, across a range of lung diseases. This project will investigate molecular pathways associated with repair and remodelling, in order to identify pro-repair targets and develop regenerative therapies for chronic lung disease. We will use an integrative, multi-omic approach to examine underlying mechanisms driving disease pathology. This, coupled with advanced cell organoid methods, will facilitate the identification and development of novel and effective therapies for patients.

What you would be doing:

You will be using a combination of high parameter techniques: spatial transcriptomics (10x Genomics), Imaging mass cytometry (IMC, Hyperion), and second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy to reveal the cellular composition of the airway wall at the single cell and RNA-level, in conjunction with the geometry of the collagen scaffold within which immune and stromal cells reside. You will develop and refine in vitro models to investigate pathways identified in transcriptomic/proteomic analyses to uncover disease mechanisms.

What we are looking for:

We are looking for a driven and enthusiastic individual who has a keen interest in mechanisms of lung inflammation and remodelling. You will be able to drive your own research project, identifying and developing techniques for collection and analysis of data.  You will be competent in multi-parameter imaging techniques, complex transcriptomic analyses and advanced cell culture techniques. Specifically:

• Experience with Multiparameter IHC/IF techniques or Imaging Mass Cytometry
• Extensive Microscopy experience (Confocal, widefield, or IMC). Knowledge or experience of Second Harmonic Generation microscopy would be advantageous.
• Image Analysis and associated software, would be desirable, including Image J, ICY, IMARIS, Huygens, Volocity, MCD, Cell Profiler, ilastik.
• Experience of analysing life sciences ‘big data’ - such Imaging Mass Cytometry, Spatial Transcriptomics, Second Harmonic Generation Microscopy data, NGS data, other ‘omics data and/or knowledge of public bioinformatics resources for biological data interrogation and interpretation.
• Experience of using R and/or python code for bioinformatics data analysis of multiplex complex datasets.

This post will provide the opportunity to develop and drive a research project as well as writing up work for presentation and publication. Therefore, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, have excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills are essential.

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.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• As a member of research staff you have 10 development days to use to develop your skills and explore your career prospects
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).

Further Information

Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have not yet been officially awarded will be appointed as a Research Assistant.

This role is for a fixed-term contract for 24 months.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Clare Lloyd: c.lloyd@imperial.ac.uk or Phil Molyneaux p.molyneaux@imperial.ac.uk

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