Job description
This position is for a talented and ambitious postdoctoral research associate to work on a King’s BHF Centre-funded project to develop novel biological agents for the revascularisation and remodelling of ischaemic tissue. The programme of work aims to test novel miRNA/modifiedRNA-based biologics for tissue remodelling with a specific focus on monocyte/macrophage biology and the development of blood vessels and. The project involves: (1) primary and stable cell line culture methods including the use of human inducible-pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs); (2) ex vivo analysis (including multi-parameter flow cytometry, RNAsequencing, immunostaining and high throughput screening assays); and (3) the use of in vivo models, including hindlimb ischaemia and myocardial infarction, to test the efficacy of newly developed biologics. Previous experience in working with iPSCs, biochemical assays, cell/molecular biology, RNAseq and bioinformatics is essential. Experience with in vivo models is desirable.   

The postholder will be part of a multi-disciplinary research team, led by Dr Ashish Patel, that has a strong track record in the development and translation of cardiovascular advanced therapies into early phase clinical trials. The successful applicant will have access to our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities within the King’s BHF Centre of Research Excellence. 
 
This post will be offered on a fixed-term contract until 2 Years FTC 
This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent

Key Objectives

• Develop and undertake research of high quality consistent with making a full active research contribution in line Department/School research strategy
• Manage specific pieces of activity to an agreed timeline and within a specific budget including literature reviews, data collection and analysis, report writing.
• To be committed to your own personal career development.
• Work as a conscientious and committed member of the team in order to achieve the aims of the project.
• Attend and, as appropriate, present research findings and papers at internal academic meetings and external professional conferences, and to contribute to the internal and external visibility of the department.
• Facilitate collaboration and networking which engages and supports the activities of the project
• Participate in educational activities as appropriate to the stage of your career.
• Liaise with the administrative team for the support of the project
• Contribute to publications arising from this project
• Undertake any other reasonable duties that may be relevant to the role outline.

Skills, knowledge, and experience

Essential criteria

1. PhD in a relevant life sciences subject
2. Strong background in genomics research-approach, including RNAseq analysis and data interpretation
3. Cell culture and molecular biological techniques
4. Experience of working with iPSCs
5. Successful completion of research projects with publication in high Impact Factor journals
6. Self-motivated and ability to work independently
7. Good presentation and communication skills (written and verbal), and good IT skills
8. Able to carry out learned experimental techniques unsupervised, and flexible/able to change in current professional context
9. Able to plan and prioritise workload and keep clear and well-organised laboratory notes and records
10. Commitment to continuing personal and professional development

Desirable criteria

1. Experience of animal surgical techniques
2. Experience with multi-parameter flow cytometry and histology
3. Expertise in monocyte and macrophage biology

 
*Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting award of their PhDs will be considered. In these circumstances the appointment will be made at Grade 5, spine point 30 with the title of Research Assistant. Upon confirmation of the award of the PhD, the job title will become Research Associate and the salary will increase to Grade 6.