Postdoctoral Research Associate in Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine

About the role

This role is for a qualified and experienced scientist who has been working in an academic or commercial research laboratory/company related to the differentiation of human iPSC into different cell lineages, and the assembly of complex tissue culture models from these cellular elements. The cells used in this experimental system will be genetically modified such that cellular functions like glucose transporter trafficking can be visualized. We will study these circuits by immunocytochemistry and live cells imaging, in close collaboration with members of the partner groups at UCL and University of Cambridge. The aim of the project is to establish a co-culture system that can be used to evaluate the impact of environmental and genetic factors on metabolic abnormalities that cause type 2 diabetes in humans, and to test potential therapeutics that stop or reverse the disease process. 

The purpose of the role is to provide subject-specific research expertise to, and undertake specific research work for the Principal Investigator (PI) and their research team for the project aimed at modelling glucose uptake by skeletal muscle with human iPSC-derived neuromuscular circuits. 

The post holder will contribute to the plan to deliver technical innovation and lead specified work packages developing the experimental plan with Dr Lieberam and other members of the team, and allocating resources to the tasks within the plan. To ensure successful development of the cellular model and progress towards understanding insulin resistance, the candidate requires a strong background/knowledge of human iPSC culture, in vitro differentiation, and imaging technology, such as confocal microscopy. In addition, they also require excellent interpersonal skills to work within and across a diverse and interdisciplinary team.   

This post will be offered on a fixed-term contract until 31st Jan 2027 in the first instance. This position is a full-time role (100% FTE). This position requires full-time on-site work.  

About you

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:

Essential criteria

1. PhD in stem cell biology, neuroscience, muscle biology or a related field.
2. Proficiency in human iPSC culture and differentiation as well molecular biology and genetic modification of human iPSCs, such as Crispr-mediated homologous recombination and transposition.
3. Competency in imaging technology, such as confocal microscopy and fluorescent live cell imaging, in particular calcium imaging and imaging of intracellular transport. 
4. Comprehensive theoretical knowledge of nerve-muscle connectivity, skeletal muscle function, and glucose metabolism. 
5. Comprehensive theoretical knowledge of neuromuscular circuit modelling with human iPSCs. 
6. Able and willing to provide support beyond core hours, as required. This applies in particular to the maintenance of human iPSC cultures. 
7. Experience with the quantification of imaging data and statistical methods required for this type of analysis. 
8. Excellent spoken & written communication skills and influencing/behaviour skills to build strong networks with internal and external stake-holders, record keeping and attention to detail, ability to contribute to the team success such as training and professional development of colleagues, providing scientific input during meetings, keeping a healthy working atmosphere in the lab. 

Desirable criteria  

1. Experience in cell analysis/sorting with flow cytometry.
2. Good scientific writing skills. 
3. Experience in supervising/advising junior team members and working within an interdisciplinary research team.

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