Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Epigenetics)

This project will investigate novel metabolic factors driving diabetic cardiomyopathy, and test targeted dietary interventions for therapeutic efficacy. This post forms one half of a collaborative project between the Trefely Lab at BI, and the Swietach and Heather Labs at Oxford University. The BI-based post holder will lead metabolomic and epigenomic analyses on mouse tissue samples provided by the Oxford-based researcher and pursue mechanistic experiments in cultured human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived cardiomyocytes. The project will advance our understanding of the metabolic-epigenetic interface in diabetic cardiomyopathy, using novel insights provided by a genetic mouse model of an inborn error in metabolism - propionyl CoA carboxylase deficiency. This post offers an opportunity for a talented scientist to hone expertise in metabolomics and epigenomics whilst extending their scope and impact across disciplines through collaboration. Although the work programme is on cardiac tissue, prior experience in cardiovascular research is not essential and we welcome scientifically diverse candidates keen on expanding their research portfolio.

The Trefely lab is focussed on the links between diet-derived metabolites and epigenetic regulation. We study how compartmentalisation of metabolic pathways affects the supply of metabolites within the nucleus and their functions in epigenetic modifications. This project will synergize cutting-edge liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) based methods for metabolomic analysis including subcellular analyses developed in the Trefely lab with state-of-the-art techniques for iPSC-derived cardiomyocyte culture (supported by the Heather Lab) and epigenomics profiling.

The ideal candidate must have a PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry or similar field, with experience in analysis of complex data sets such as metabolomic, sequencing or proteomics. Collaboration is an essential part of the project and the candidate must demonstrate strong communication skills, and be adaptable to work flexibly and independently to develop the project. The candidate will be trained in specialised metabolic analyses employing liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) in the Trefely lab but prior experience in metabolomic analysis is an advantage. Experience in stem cell culture and metabolic research is highly desirable for this post.

This is a limited term appointment with funding for this post expected to be available for a period of 3 years.

Informal inquiries should be made to Sophie Trefely (Sophie.Trefely@babraham.ac.uk).

More information on the work of the groups:

https://www.babraham.ac.uk/our-research/epigenetics/sophie-trefely 

https://www.dpag.ox.ac.uk/team/pawel-swietach 

https://www.dpag.ox.ac.uk/research/heather-group 

Applicants must hold a PhD or have their thesis submitted when commencing the post. Please note that you will be appointed on the starting salary of £34,500 per annum, if you have not yet been awarded your PhD.  All newly appointed postdocs will commence on the salary/scale point that reflects the number of years' post-PhD experience they hold on 30th June in the calendar year they commence employment. Due to the available funding for this grant the role will better suit a Postdoc with up to 4 years’ post-PhD experience.

Closing date for applications is Sunday, 19^th January 2025.

However, we reserve the right to close the vacancy early depending on the volume of applications received.

NO AGENCIES PLEASE

The Babraham Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award and is committed to promoting and developing a culture of excellence, diversity and mutual respect that supports the Institute’s ambitions and attracts highly motivated and talented people. The Babraham Institute abides by the principles of the government’s Disability Confident Scheme and has a positive approach to employing disabled people

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