Research Associate, Department of Diabetes

Applications are invited for the position of Post-Doctoral Research Assistant in the laboratory of Dr Paul Caton. The protein eNAMPT/visfatin plays an important role in the pathophysiology of NAFLD and NASH. The post-holder will focus on investigating the therapeutic potential of novel eNAMPT modulating compounds, using mouse models of NASH.

Minimum qualifications are a PhD with strong expertise in in vivo model systems and compound administration, plus experience of liver analysis. Experience in generation and analysis of in vivo models of NASH/NAFLD and or insulin resistance is desirable. Candidates should be highly motivated individuals with excellent communication skills and have the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• PhD in a relevant biological sciences subject - Expertise in compound administration to in vivo model systems
• Experience of Liver histology, immunohistochemistry, FACs analysis - Knowledge and experience of generating and phenotyping mouse models of NASH/NAFLD, obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
• Home Office Licence

This post will be offered on a fixed-term contract for 11 months.

This is a full-time post.

Key responsibilities

• Administration of compounds to in vivo NAFLD/NASH models 
• Phenotyping of NASH/NAFLD models 
• Supervision of MSc/BSc students where required 

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

Essential criteria

• Compound administration to in vivo models (e.g. intravenous, oral gavage, sub-cutaneous, intra-peritoneal) 
• Home Office animal license
• Experience of Liver histology, immunohistochemistry, FACs
• Generating and phenotyping mouse models of NASH/NAFLD
• Knowledge of NASH/NAFLD pathophysiology
• Willing and able to work in a team
• Ability to keep clear and well-organized laboratory notes and records
• Ability to plan and prioritise workload
• Ability to carry out known/learnt techniques unsupervised
• Good communication (both written and verbal) and presentation skills
• Self-motivated, ability to work independently
• PhD

Desirable criteria

• Experience of qPCR, western blotting, ELISA
• Knowledge of insulin resistance and CVD
• Experience of cardiovascular and adipose tissue analysis
• Liver cell isolation and culture