Research Fellow in Human Germ Cell Development (109777-0125)

For informal queries, please email Wolfrum Gruhn (Assistant Professor) at wolfram.gruhn@warwick.ac.uk.

The laboratory of Dr. Wolfram Gruhn at the University of Warwick is inviting applications for a postdoctoral position focused on uncovering the molecular mechanisms driving human germline development.

Research Interests

Our research focuses on understanding mechanisms driving the development of the human germline. Specifically, we aim to unravel transcription factor networks regulating the profound epigenetic changes that allow germ cells to acquire the potential for giving rise to a totipotent zygote.

In light of the global rise in infertility, we are also investigating the potential role of environmental factors in perturbing normal germ cell development.

Our work builds on our previous extensive characterization of the epigenome of human primordial germ cells (hPGCs) and different embryonic stem cell-derived embryoid and organoid models recapitulating early human germline development in vitro.

Project Description

In our previous research, we have extensively studied the epigenetic and transcriptional landscape of hPGCs and embryonic stem cell-derived hPGC-like cells.

Building on this comprehensive dataset, this project aims to identify transcription factor networks that regulate epigenetic remodeling and germline development.

We will utilize cutting-edge CRISPR tools, single-cell RNA-seq, and advanced techniques to study protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions (e.g., BioID and CUT&RUN).

Bioinformatic integration of transcriptomic and transcription factor binding data with our previously generated epigenetic and ATAC-seq datasets will provide an in-depth view of transcriptional regulation in the early human germline.

The insights gained will not only enhance our understanding of germline-specific epigenetic remodeling - a critical process for gamete formation and embryonic development - but also allow us to improve current in vitro models of germ cell development.

This project will be primarily conducted in our newly established stem cell laboratory at the Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories (CSRL), with access to state-of-the-art microscopy and proteomics facilities at the University of Warwick’s Gibbet Hill campus.

Bioinformatics support will be provided by Warwick’s Bioinformatics & Digital Health Research Technology Platform.

Funding for this project is provided by a BBSRC New Investigator award.

Full details of the duties and selection criteria for this role can be found in the vacancy advert on the University of Warwick's jobs pages. You will be routed to this when you click on the Apply button..

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