Applications are invited for a temporary post of a UCD Post-Doctoral Research Fellow Level 2 within UCD School of Medicine

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) currently has no treatment beyond palliative care, therefore a therapy to restore the structural integrity of skin by conferring type VII collagen expression is greatly required. CRISPR has emerged as a new versatile genomic editing technology with huge potential for clinical translation, in particular for RDEB where restoration of type vii collagen would yield significant therapeutic benefit to patients.

Similar to gene therapy, the delivery of CRISPR systems to target tissues or cells in the human body is the biggest challenge for its therapeutic applications. Development of a safe and efficient delivery systems is therefore crucial for the success of CRISPR genomic editing in clinics. Although the potential is huge, overcoming barriers to efficient delivery remains crucial for achieving safe and effective clinical success. Current delivery methods for CRISPR delivery suffer from either safety concerns relating to use of viral vectors or are limited to an ex vivo approach such as through electroporation.

The project purpose seeks to develop and assess a non-invasive strategy to restore type vii collagen expression in RDEB patient cells through the use of CRISPR gene editing delivered using a non-viral polymer vector.

This is an advanced research focused role, building on your prior experience as a post-doctoral fellow, where you will conduct a specified programme of research supported by research training under the supervision and direction of a Principal Investigator.

The primary purpose of the role is to develop new or advanced research skills and competences, on the processes of publication in peer-reviewed academic publications and scholarly dissemination, the development of funding proposals, and the supervision and mentorship of graduate students along with the opportunity to develop your skills in research led teaching.

Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 2 Salary Scale: €40,041- €49,049 per annum
Appointment on the above range will be dependent on qualifications and experience

Closing date: 17:00hrs (local Irish time) on 10th June 2020

Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time of 17:00hrs (Local Irish Time) on the specified closing date will be cancelled automatically by the system. UCD are unable to accept late applications.

UCD do not require assistance from Recruitment Agencies. Any CV's submitted by Recruitment Agencies will be returned.

Prior to application, further information (including application procedure) should be obtained from the Work at UCD website: https://www.ucd.ie/workatucd/jobs/.