Job description

The post holder will report to Professor Mauro Giacca and will perform research aimed to study the molecular properties that regulate replication of cardiac myocytes. The laboratory has a long-standing interest in this field (Eulalio, A, et al. 2012. Nature 492, 376; Gabisonia, K, et al. 2019. Nature 569, 418), as the stimulation of endogenous cardiomyocyte proliferation after myocardial infarction using proteins, cDNA or microRNAs be developed therapeutically to achieve cardiac regeneration (reviewed in: Braga, L, et al. 2021. Cardiovasc Res 117, 674; Cannata, A, et al. 2020. Circ Res 126, 1394). 

The incumbent will study the molecular interaction network, transcriptional profile and cytological characteristics of replicating cardiomyocytes. Specific studies will involve the implementation of single cell sequencing technologies to study of the transcriptional phenotype of replicating cardiomyocytes.  

The successful candidate will join a research group within the BHF Centre of Research Excellence, which provides an excellent highly multidisciplinary environment with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. 

This post will be offered on an a fixed-term contract for 2 years 

This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent

Key responsibilities

• Engage in internationally-leading research and to take a role in determining the future path of this research
• Manage specific tasks of activity to an agreed timeline and within a specific budget including literature reviews, data collection and analysis, report writing.
• Attend and, as appropriate, present research findings and papers at internal academic meetings and external professional conferences, and contribute to the internal and external visibility of the host laboratory and the School.
• Work as a conscientious and committed member of the team in order to achieve the aims of the projects and the primary care group.
• Facilitate collaboration and networking which engages and supports the activities of the Giacca group.
• Contribute to the supervision of PhD and Master students
• Be committed to his/her own personal career development.
• Liaise with the administrative team for the support of the research
• Contribute to publications arising from this research
• Undertake any other reasonable duties that may be relevant to the role outline.

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.

Skills, knowledge, and experience

The post requires a PhD, plus work experience in a relevant scientific post and considerable knowledge and skills of a range of scientific practices and procedures in the field of molecular and cellular biology applied to cardiovascular investigations. The successful applicant must demonstrate proven experience in a range of techniques in molecular biology, cell culture, histology and microscopy, and a strong understanding of the scientific theories underpinning those. The post holder must demonstrate an active commitment to professional development such as membership to a professional body, commitment to Continuing Professional Development and/or ongoing training or education activities.

Essential criteria

1. PhD awarded in subjects related to the field of investigation
2. Previous work experience in a relevant scientific post in the pre- and/or post-graduate period
3. Experience with experimental work with cardiomyocytes or other cells of relevance for cardiovascular investigations
4. Expertise in the following techniques: molecular biology (PCR Western Blotting, DNA manipulation, cell transfection, immunofluorescence), cell culture and histology, and fluorescence microscopy (preferably high content fluorescence microscopy)
5. Well-developed analytical and problem-solving capabilities - gathering, manipulating, interpreting, evaluating and analysing data, information, concepts, and ideas
6. Good computer skills, numeracy skills and ability to apply learnt techniques/skills to the work context
7. Planning and organizational skills, with ability to manage competing priorities and work with minimal supervision
8. Excellent communication skills, orally and in writing, along with strong interpersonal and collaborative skills

Desirable criteria

1. Previous experience in single cell sequencing technologies is a relevant asset.

* 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.

Further information

The applicant should be able and willing to provide additional support beyond core hours as required.

This post is subject to Disclosure and Barring Service and Occupational Health clearance.