Research Assistant

Location: Hammersmith / South Kensington

About the role:

Applications are invited for a research assistant to join an exciting opportunity in airway delivery of mRNA for treatment of respiratory disease such as lung cancer. You will be based at the National Heart & Lung Institute within the multidisciplinary team of Dr. Asha Patel. The position is supported by the Medical Research Council and aims to increase our understanding of mRNA translation to therapeutic protein in the lung. We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with a background in respiratory disease, immunology, or gene therapy.

What you would be doing:

You will be responsible for managing, optimising, and executing project aims within a defined timescale. You will work collaboratively within the Patel group and additional research groups, including Prof. Robin Shattock, to determine if mRNA encoded antigen can be translated in airway cells in vitro and in vivo. Protein expression, presentation and impact on lung physiology and immune response will be characterised.

What we are looking for:

• Candidates should hold a first degree (2.1 or higher) eg BSc and a master’s degree (merit or above), both in either biology, immunology, bioengineering, pharmaceutical science, or related discipline.
• You should have practical lab experience in biological assays, cell culture, and statistical methods.
• Experience or willingness to undertake in vivo experimentation.
• Knowledge of nucleic acid therapies, respiratory disease or lung cancer, and immune response.
• Ability to manage projects, maintain accurate records and share information through effective verbal and written communication.
• Organise own time in response to deadlines and project priorities.
• Mentor and motivate others to produce a high standard of work.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to work in a diverse, collaborative and multidisciplinary team.
• Translational project aims that could impact next generation therapies.
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: Gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).

Further Information

This is a 17-month fixed term contract based primarily at the Hammersmith campus, full time and on site.

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

Dr Asha Patel - asha.patel@imperial.ac.uk

Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above.

If you encounter any technical issues while applying online, please don't hesitate to email us at support.jobs@imperial.ac.uk. We're here to help.

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