Post-doctoral Fellow in LNP-assisted Gene-Editing for Neurodegeneration

We now invite applicants to join the JC STEM Lab of Nanomedicine for Advanced Therapy (PI: Professor Khuloud Al-Jamal) at the Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy. We are a highly collaborative research team developing an innovative lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing platform for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to evaluate single and dual gene knockout strategies targeting two key modifiers of disease pathology, as a novel non-viral therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative diseases. 

The aim of our lab is to leverage lipid nanoparticle-mediated gene editing to overcome the limitations of current ALS therapies, spanning gene editing technology, nanoparticle-based delivery, in vivo disease modelling, and computational systems analysis to translate a precise, broadly applicable gene therapy strategy toward clinical relevance. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design and evaluate CRISPR-Cas9-based gene editing strategies for single and dual gene knockout in disease-relevant models.
• Formulate, characterise and optimise lipid nanoparticles for the encapsulation and delivery of gene editing payloads.
• Conduct in vivo animal studies, including administration of LNP-based therapeutics, sample collection, and disease progression monitoring.
• Perform behavioural studies and phenotypic assessments in disease mouse models to evaluate therapeutic efficacy.
• Apply immunohistochemistry to determine tissue- and cell-type-specific targeting and delivery precision.
• Conduct western blot and molecular analyses to quantify target protein knockout and pathological markers.
• Support transcriptomic studies and contribute to computational modelling of molecular interplay.
• Collaborate internationally, prepare reports and protocols, and contribute to grant and manuscript writing.
• Supervise students and disseminate findings through publications and conference presentations.
• Collaborate with other team member to ensure effective synergy between various projects.  

Requirements: 

Education and Expertise:

• A Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Bioengineering, or a related field is required.
• Strong biological skills and a proven research track record in gene editing or nanoparticle-based therapeutics.
• Demonstrated experience in scientific writing and publication. 

Research Skills:

• Hands-on expertise in gene editing, particularly CRISPR-Cas systems, including guide RNA design and editing validation.
• Experience in LNP formulation, characterisation, and nucleic acid payload encapsulation is essential.
• Familiarity with neurodegenerative disease biology, particularly neuroinflammation, microglial activation, and neuroprotection mechanisms.
• Proficiency in in vivo experiments including behavioural studies is a plus.
• Expertise in cellular and molecular biology techniques such as western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and cell culture (mainly motor neurons). 

Administrative and Collaborative Skills:

• Ability to manage a research programme financially and administratively under the guidance of the Principal Investigator.
• Ability to work independently with excellent problem-solving skills, collaborate within a team, and supervise students.
• High attention to detail in experimental design and execution with a willingness to adapt to new procedures and undergo further training as necessary. 

Language and Technical Competence:

• Excellent communication, command of written and spoken English.
• Capable of contributing to grant writing and funding applications.
• Proficient in IT skills for efficient data management and communication within the research programme including but not limited to the data management, analysis, and reporting. 

What We Offer:

The appointment will commence as soon as possible on a temporary basis for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal subject to funding availability and project progress. A competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered. Other benefits include annual leave, medical benefits and free access to on-campus gyms and libraries. 

How to Apply:

The University only accepts online application for the above post. Applicants should apply online at the University’s career site by clicking the 'Apply' button and upload an up-to-date C.V. Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until January 31, 2027, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier. 

The University is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to equality, ethics, inclusivity, diversity and transparency