Research Associate

The role

An enthusiastic and highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate is required to add their expertise to a team investigating immunological mechanisms that link sight-threatening uveitis and inflammatory arthritis. We have identified cytokine-regulated mechanisms that determine the pathogenic potential of T helper cells that orchestrate tissue damage in uveitis and arthritis. The project will combine in vivo models of autoimmune uveitis and inflammatory arthritis, alongside in vitro T cell assays, to test key mechanisms as determinants of T cell-mediated pathology. Pre-clinical studies will also test the therapeutic potential of these immune mechanisms in in vivo models and in samples from patients with these conditions.

The post is funded for 3 years in the School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine and is available from June 2024.

What will you be doing?

• Use in vitro CD4 T cell assays to test mechanisms that determine their pathogenic potential.
• Establish models of experimental autoimmune uveitis and inflammatory arthritis to test drug interventions.
• Perform RNA-sequencing, proteomic and bioinformatic analysis of immune cells.
• Analyse, interpret data and discuss results routinely with the research team.
• Make a considerable intellectual contribution to the project and experimental design.
• Maintain a knowledge of the relevant scientific literature and advancements in the field.
• Dissemination of research - writing papers, presenting talks and posters at national/international meetings.
• Contribute to public and patient engagement activities.
• Team working, contributing to research student supervision and training.

You should apply if

You have, or are nearing completion/submission for a PhD, in Immunology and have experience of working with in vivo murine models of experimental autoimmune uveitis and inflammatory arthritis, and working with cytokines, T helper cell cultures and cutting-edge omics approaches (e.g., RNA-sequencing). You should have a proven track record for conducting and disseminating research, evidenced by publications and presentations in respected journals and conferences, respectively. 

Additional information

For informal enquiries please contact Dr Gareth Jones, g.jones@bristol.ac.uk +44 117 455 5705.

It is anticipated that interviews will be held on 4th June 2024.

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