Research Associate in Gene Therapy

The role

The University of Bristol seeks a dedicated Research Associate to advance gene therapy research for people with people with Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

AD is a progressive neurological disorder, and its increasing prevalence poses a critical global health challenge. Therapies that can prevent the onset of AD represent a major unmet clinical need and are urgently required. We are therefore seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our team, where they will play a key role in generating and testing advanced, next-generation viral gene therapy vectors in AD models. Utilising cutting-edge technologies, they will contribute to the development of a brain-targeted gene therapy, with the aim of advancing it to in-vivo studies and clinical trials.

As the successful candidate, the Research Associate will join a dynamic and collaborative interdisciplinary research team led by Dr. Kevin Kemp at the Bristol Medical School. The position is based in the Dorothy Hodgkin Building, a cutting-edge research facility located in the heart of Bristol, featuring state-of-the-art imaging, cell culture, and molecular biology facilities.

What will you be doing?

Over the project you will:

• Carry out experimental techniques. You will be responsible for a variety of research techniques including cloning, nucleofection, viral production, sequencing, and establishing/maintaining haematopoietic stem cell cultures. You will help assess the impact of gene therapy treatment using molecular, flow cytometric, and histological methods. 
• Prepare reagents, maintain stocks of laboratory materials and consumables. You will source and maintain stocks of laboratory materials and consumables.
• Keep accurate records of all experimental work performed. You will keep precise, accurate and secure records of all experimental work.
• Analyse and communicate your research. You will analyse complex experimental data and disseminate your findings through writing scientific papers and presenting at internal and external meetings.
• Work to ensure a safe working environment. You will ensure compliance with Health and Safety regulations and local policies.
• Training others in processes and procedures. You will interact with and provide guidance, support and training to students conducting research studies or projects.

You should apply if

• You have experience of molecular cloning and working with CRISPR-Cas9, base editing and/or prime editing systems.
• You have experience of working in a research laboratory, IT skills, process improvement and problem solving.
• You have excellent organisational skills, with the ability to deal with and prioritise a range of ongoing tasks at the same time, and to be able to cope under pressure.
• You can build strong, effective relationships with a wide range of internal and external contacts at different levels of seniority.
• You have excellent communication skills and can clearly articulate verbally and in writing.

Additional information

Contract type: Open-ended with funding for 12 months

For informal queries please contact: 

Dr Kevin Kemp (kevin.kemp@bristol.ac.uk)

Our strategy and mission

Advert information