Job description
This is an exciting opportunity to join a team of multi-disciplinary scientists to understand how epithelial cells maintain barrier function. The project will study novel adhesion structures we have identified and dissect the signalling mechanisms by which these structures control epithelial homeostasis. The study will use a range of state-of-the-art microscopy techniques, molecular biology, and proteomics approaches to define these mechanisms. This is a collaborative study with a team at Cambridge University and will require close working with this group to extend findings to an in vivo setting. Access to excellent training and world class facilities will be provided, with opportunities to present findings at national and international scientific meetings.  
 
This post will be offered on an  a fixed-term contract until 30th April 2024 
This is a full-time  post - 100% full time equivalent

Key responsibilities

• Analyzing roles for key adhesion receptors in controlling epithelial cell homeostasis  
• Developing new approaches to study epithelial adhesion biology events in live cells  
• Defining novel molecular targets driving inflammatory lung disease and cancer 
• Working both independently and as part of an inter-disciplinary team 
• Presenting work at national and international meetings 
• Writing papers and supervising other team members 
• Ability to work flexibly to suit the demands of the project 

 
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  
 
1.       BSc and PhD in relevant subject area 
2.       Background in epithelial/cell biology and/or adhesion receptor signaling/cytoskeleton 
3.       Prior experience in human cell culture, biochemistry and molecular biology 
4.       Prior experience in fluorescence microscopy and image analysis 
5.       Experience working in multidisciplinary, collaborative team environments  
6.       Strong communication skills 
7.       Ability to write scientific documents and papers 
8.       Strong presentation skills 
 
Desirable criteria
 
1.       Advanced microscopy skills including optogenetics 
2.       Experience in proteomics techniques and data analysis
 
* 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.