Research Associate in Morphogenesis

Applications are invited for a Research Associate in Dr Fengzhu Xiongs' Developmental Mechanics group at the Gurdon Institute at University of Cambridge. The group focuses on studying the cellular and physical mechanisms of morphogenesis in development using quantitative approaches (https://www.gurdon.cam.ac.uk/people/fengzhu-xiong).

As soft matter, embryonic tissues need to produce forces and regulate mechanical properties to drive shape changes during development. The mechanisms of tissue mechanics can reside on different scales (molecular, cellular, tissue) and may come from unexpected sources (neighbouring tissues, extraembryonic environment). Much remains to be learned about how cell dynamics produce and regulate these forces and tissue mechanical properties, and how robust tissue shapes are achieved.

We are now seeking a motivated postdoc to join our interdisciplinary team. The successful candidate will conduct cutting edge research with a high level of independence and close support of the PI, with focuses including but not limited to: 1. design and implementation of mechanical measurements and perturbations in live embryos; 2. develop mechanical models of morphogenesis integrating data from quantitative imaging of cell dynamics; 3. identify cellular and molecular mechanisms of tissue mechanics. This is an ideal position for an aspiring scientist who has ambitions to solve important challenges in biology by innovatively applying their previous training.

Candidates are expected to hold (or soon to be awarded) a PhD in a related STEM subject. Applicants should provide evidence of a strong interest in developmental biology questions by demonstrating relevant experiences and expertise, and articulating their career vision at the interface of biology and physics in the cover letter. Experience in imaging and image analysis, particularly using advanced computational techniques, and working knowledge of chicken and zebrafish embryo systems are highly desired.

Applicants should have excellent communication skills and should be able to work both independently and as part of a team.

Successful candidates who have not been awarded their PhD by the appointment date will be appointed as a Research Assistant at Grade 5 (£32,982 per annum). Upon award of the PhD the individual will be promoted to Research Associate, Grade 7 (£36,024-£44,263 per annum).

This position is available for 1 year at the first instance.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Fengzhu Xiong via fx220@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PR43297 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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