Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

A Research Assistant position is available within the group of Dr Gabriel Balmus at the UK Dementia Research Institute (UKDRI), focused on exploring the relationship between DNA Damage and Huntington's Disease. The work is funded by the CHDI Foundation for 2 years, with the possibility of renewal for another 2 years.

Huntington's Disease (HD) is a fatal autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease caused by unstable expansion of a CAG triple nucleotide repeat in the coding region of the HTT gene. Currently, no treatment can slow or stop disease initiation or progression; thus, there is an unmet need that requires research aimed at discovering disease modifiers prospective to become used in therapy. Large HD population studies have recently uncovered that the expansion of repeats is strongly modified by two distinct DNA damage and repair (DDR) modules, FAN1 and mismatch repair (MMR). The goal of this project is to elucidate the associated network of genes that are modulators of CAG repeat expansion and integrate this network with the broad DNA Damage Response network. Uncovering this network would represent an important step forward for better understanding the best druggable targets and how to stratify patients.

Education to a BSc degree in Biomedical Science, Biochemistry, Genetics or a related discipline is required.

Experience in cell and molecular biology techniques, such as CRISPR/Cas9, western blotting, PCR and tissue culture, is essential. Other essential skills encompass cell line design and development, along with genetic and phenotypic validation.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click 'Apply' above.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

The closing date for applications is: 19^th January 2025 

The interview date for the role is: W/C 13^th and 14^th January

Please quote reference ZE44621 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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