Research Associate

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher with a strong background in molecular biology to join us

About the role

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher with a strong background in molecular biology to join the Martinez-Sanchez research group at Imperial College London (ICL) for a highly collaborative project with the Srivastava (ICL) and the Rodriguez-Calvo lab (Helmholtz Munich).

This innovative project will investigate microRNA (miRNA) heterogeneity within pancreatic beta-cell subpopulations at single-cell resolution to improve beta-cell therapies for type 1 diabetes (T1D). The project is funded by the Diabetes UK and aims to developed novel therapeutics for type 1 diabetes (T1D)

What you would be doing

You will be using cutting-edge molecular, computational and imaging techniques to explore and compare miRNA expression and targeting at high-throughput and single-cell levels between stem-cell (SC)-derived islets, human islets and pancreatic tissue in health and T1D.

You will also participate in the training and supervision of junior members of the team.

By leading this project, you will provide novel understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the heterogeneous functionality of beta-cells, enhancing current efforts to preserve and generate beta-cells for the treatment of T1D.

What we are looking for

• You should have, or be near completion of, a PhD degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology or a related discipline.
• Strong experience in developing and/or applying and troubleshooting advanced molecular biology techniques is essential.
• Previous experience in the preparation of sequencing libraries (e.g. small RNA-seq or RNA-seq) and, particularly, in single-cell libraries and/or the use of 10X Genomics would be highly advantageous.
• Practical experience with cell culture is essential. Practical experience with iPSC culture/differentiation would be desirable but not essential.
• Experience with computational transcriptomics, including single-cell, would be advantageous but not essential.
• Previous experience in beta-cell and/or miRNA biology would be advantageous but not essential.
• Practical experience in pathology, staining, microscopy and image analysis are a plus.
• The ability to develop and apply new concepts and a creative approach to problem-solving are essential.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills are also essential.
• Willingness to work as part of a team and to contribute to the supervision of other researchers at different levels is also essential.

What we can offer you

Our laboratory is committed to mentoring scientists and fostering creative thinking and scientific independence. This position will provide opportunities not only to develop cutting-edge research skills but also highly transferable skills such as communication, leadership and management.

We offer you:

• The chance to expand your molecular biology skills and develop your experimental skills in single-cell analysis of small RNA expression and action.
• Opportunities to develop skills in beta-cell and microRNA biology and expand your knowledge in islet function in health and diabetes.
• A chance to develop computational skills in single-cell omics.
• The chance to acquire training in cutting-edge microscopy and image analysis to study small RNA expression in the human pancreas.
• The opportunity to advance your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.

Further information

This post is a full time, fixed contract up to 24 months, starting January-February 2024 (starting date is negotiable, but an early start will be preferable).

If you require any further details on the role please contact:

Aida Martinez-Sanchez (a.martinez-sanchez@imperial.ac.uk)

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