Research Assistant - Fish Epigenetics

Contract Type: Fixed Term

Location: Singleton Campus, Swansea

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY

Swansea University is a research-led university that has been making a difference since 1920. The University community thrives on exploration and discovery and offers the right balance of excellent teaching and research, matched by an enviable quality of life.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Sex determination is remarkably variable in vertebrates; sexes can be separate or together in the same individual (hermaphrodites), and can be determined by chromosomes, master genes or even by the environment. Why such a critical process for species’ survival is so variable? This project will investigate the role of non-genetic (epigenetic) regulatory mechanisms influenced by the environment on the evolution of temperature-dependent sex-determination, by testing the hypothesis that random epigenetic changes occurring on genes related to sex-determination can persist over generations when affected by natural selection, and in this way explain the variety of sex-determination routes observed in vertebrates.

The main specific tasks of the post include:

• Participate in the design of the experimental plan under the supervision of the PI and the PDRA.
• Lead the experimental and molecular laboratory parts of the project under the training and supervision of the PDRA and PI.
• Participate in the Bioinformatics and statistical analyses in collaboration with the PI and PDRA.
• Participate in the writing up of papers and reports on the results of the project as required, in collaboration with the PDRA, PI, CoI and collaborators.
• Disseminate/communicate the results of the projects at academic conferences, general public events and social media (when relevant).
• Attend regular meetings to discuss the progress of the project with the PI, CoI and collaborators.

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

The University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity in all its practices and activities. We aim to establish an inclusive environment and welcome diverse applications from the following protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation.

As an inclusive and welcoming workplace, we value people for their skills regardless of their background. Applications are welcome in Welsh and will not be treated less favourably than those submitted in English.

WELSH LANGUAGE SKILLS

The Welsh language level required for this role is Level 1 - A little. The role holder will be able to pronounce Welsh words, answer the phone in Welsh (good morning/afternoon) and use very basic everyday words and phrases (thank you, please etc.). Level 1 can be reached by completing a 1 hour course.

The University is a proud bilingual institution, our Welsh Language Strategy outlines our aspiration to promote the language and enable our staff to engage with the language as an additional workplace skill and as a gateway to new cultural and social opportunities. Applications are welcome in Welsh and will not be treated less favourably than those submitted in English. Welsh speakers have the right to an interview in Welsh. Applicants for a role where Welsh skills are essential are expected to present their application in Welsh and will be interviewed in Welsh, if shortlisted.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Applications for this role will take the format of a CV submission and cover letter.

Closing Date: 22 August 2024

Interview Date: 2 September 2024

Informal Enquiries:  Sofia Consuegra s.consuegra@swansea.ac.uk

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