Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed term)

Applications are invited for a Research Associate/Fellow to work on a UKRI funded project, Advanced Interdisciplinary Models of dEstructive lung Disease: AIMED using multiple molecular genetics techniques including lung cell and tissue models and spatial transcriptomics in the laboratory of Professors Ian Sayers and Simon Johnson (Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, UK). 

The main aim of this programme of work is to use a multidisciplinary approach to advance our mechanistic understanding of destructive lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM). The programme will use quantitative imaging, biological and clinical data of tissue injury and repair from LAM and COPD patient lungs alongside the development of mathematical and computational models to predict changes in lung structure and function. This is a collaboration between the Universities of Nottingham, Leicester and Birmingham.  

This position will be especially suited to candidates with interest in functional genomics, bioinformatics, lung cell biology and respiratory medicine. The successful candidate will also work in close collaboration with researchers in Leicester and Birmingham. This post offers a unique opportunity to work in fast developing field of molecular genetics and spatial biology and to develop skills in state-of-the-art technologies. 

Applicants must be highly motivated and self-driven, with a PhD (or near to completion of PhD) or equivalent in Genomics, Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology, or the equivalent in professional qualifications and experience in research area. The successful candidate will have considerable experience in handling and analysing large genomic datasets, and an understanding of common molecular biology techniques including, PCR, plasmid construction, transfection. A track record of publishing research and experience/skills in airway cell culture and spatial transcriptomics methods is desirable.

This role is available from 1st February 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter and will be offered on a fixed-term contract until 31st January 2027. Hours of work are full-time (36.25 hours); however applications are also welcome from candidates wishing to work part-time (minimum 29 hours per week).

Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof Ian Sayers, email Ian.Sayers@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

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