Research Assistant

Location: Hammersmith campus (East Acton), ICTEM building

Job Summary

The heart is a highly innervated organ with a complex system of efferent nerves and feedback mechanisms to enable the autonomic modulation of cardiac function. The interest in the role of the autonomic nervous system in the pathophysiology of cardiac arrhythmias has increased exponentially in recent years. However, the main unit of communication between neurons and cardiomyocytes, the neuro-cardiac junction (NCJ), remains largely unexplored, mostly because of the lack of suitable models and techniques. We need to understand how neuronal information is translated into the wide array of cardiac responses from maintaining resting heart rate to engaging maximal performance in the fight‐or‐flight responses.

The main objective of the project is to provide a comprehensive insight into the function of the NCJ. It will involve the use of suitable techniques for this purpose including immunochemistry, state-of-the-art microscopy, and electrophysiology. The roles of Beta-adrenergic receptor subtypes at the NCJ will be studied, together with the function and distribution of calcium and sodium channels. Co-localization of these channels with other proteins of interest and the mechanisms underlying their trafficking and cluster formation will be investigated.

The Research Assistant position for “Functional nano-imaging of neuro-cardiac junctions” will be based in the section Cardiac Function within the National Heart and Lung Institute, which provides an exciting environment, with state-of-the-art facilities and excellent opportunities for PhD student training including research seminars and journal clubs. This project will be carried out in close collaboration with other members of the group, and the institute provides extensive collaborative opportunities with other research groups.

Duties and responsibilities

Research Duties:

• Characterisation of the neuro-cardiac junction to identify and develop suitable techniques, and apparatus, for the collection and analysis of data
• To assist with the analysis of data
• To ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times
• To maintain accurate and complete records of all findings
• To assist with the writing of reports to research sponsors
• To present findings to colleagues
• To provide advice to other staff and students
• To assist with the publication of findings
• To attend relevant workshops and conferences as necessary
• To develop contacts within the College and the wider community
• To promote the reputation of the Group, the Department and the College

Essential requirements       

• A masters degree (or equivalent) in Biomedical Science or related discipline
• Applicants must hold a first or upper second-class undergraduate degree or UK equivalent, along with a Masters, both in an appropriate subject from a recognised academic institution
• Experience of primary cell culture in vitro
• Previous experience in a research laboratory environment
• Knowledge of the cardiovascular system
• Knowledge of basic research methods and statistical procedures
• Knowledge of general laboratory practice, techniques and instrumentation
• Ability to conduct a detailed review of recent literature
• Ability to develop and apply new concepts
• Creative approach to problem-solving

Please see Job description for full list of Responsibilities, Essential and Desirable requirements.         

Further Information 

This is a full time, fixed term role based at Hammersmith Campus (East Acton).

Should you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr. Jose L. Sanchez-Alonso (j.sanchez-alonso-mardones@imperial.ac.uk)

Please complete an online application to be considered.

Closing date: 03/06/2024 

Apply online via the above ‘Apply’ button.

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