About Us

KCL Centre for Gene Therapy & Regenerative Medicine (CGTRM) is a premier research institution for the study of tissue regeneration with next-generation cellular and genetic therapeutics. Within the Centre, the Lieberam group investigates nerve muscle connectivity and disease that affect neuromuscular circuits, using human iPSC-based tissue culture models as their primary experimental system.

Together with the groups of Prof Juan Burrone (KCL), Prof Pietro Fratta (UCL), Prof Mala Shah (UCL) and Prof Wenhui Song (KCL), we are developing a human iPSC-based model of neuromuscular circuits. Our aim is to uncover the disease mechanisms underlying Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD).

About the role

This role is for a qualified and experienced scientist who has been working in an academic or commercial research laboratory/company related to the differentiation of human iPSC into different cell lineages, the assembly of complex tissue culture models from these cellular elements, and the study of abnormal neuronal activity in neurons with ALS/FTD-linked genotypes. The cells used in this experimental system will be genetically modified such that activity can be controlled optogenetically. We will study these circuits by immunocytochemistry, electrophysiology and live cells imaging, in close collaboration with members of the partner groups at KCL and UCL. The aim of the project is to investigate the role of hyperexcitation and synaptic defects in ALS/FTD, and to test potential therapeutics that stop or reverse the disease process. 

The post holder will contribute to the plan to deliver technical innovation and lead specified work packages developing the experimental plan with Dr Lieberam and other members of the team, and allocating resources to the tasks within the plan. To ensure successful development of the cellular model and progress towards understanding insulin resistance, the candidate requires a strong background/knowledge of human iPSC culture, in vitro differentiation, electrophysiology, and imaging technology, such as confocal microscopy. In addition, they also require excellent interpersonal skills to work within and across a diverse and interdisciplinary team. 

The post holder will be jointly supervised by Dr Ivo Lieberam (CGTRM, KCL) and Prof Juan Burrone (CDN, KCL) regarding their scientific work. The role will be based at the CGTRM, and Dr Lieberam will be the Line Manager.

This is a full time (35 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 28 February 2027. 

About You

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:

Essential criteria

1. PhD in stem cell biology, neuroscience, muscle biology or a related field *
2. Proficiency in human iPSC culture and differentiation as well molecular biology and genetic modification of human iPSCs, such as Crispr-mediated homologous recombination and transposition
3. Competency in imaging technology, such as confocal microscopy and fluorescent live cell imaging, in particular calcium imaging and imaging of intracellular transport
4. Proficiency in electrophysiological methods used to study neural circuit activity in vitro, such as patch-clamp recording and multi-electrode array analysis
5. Comprehensive theoretical knowledge of nerve-muscle connectivity, skeletal muscle function, and neuromuscular disease
6. Comprehensive theoretical knowledge of neuromuscular circuit modelling with human iPSCs
7. Experience with the quantification of imaging data and statistical methods required for this type of analysis
8. Excellent spoken & written communication skills and influencing/behaviour skills to build strong networks with internal and external stake-holders, record keeping and attention to detail, ability to contribute to the team success such as training and professional development of colleagues, providing scientific input during meetings, keeping a healthy working atmosphere in the lab

* 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. 

Desirable criteria  

1. Experience in cell analysis/sorting with flow cytometry
2. Good scientific writing skills
3. Experience in supervising/advising junior team members and working within an interdisciplinary research team

Downloading a copy of our Job Description

Full details of the role and the skills, knowledge and experience required can be found in the Job Description document, provided at the bottom of the next page after you click “Apply Now”. This document will provide information of what criteria will be assessed at each stage of the recruitment process.

Further Information

We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming. We embrace diversity and want everyone to feel that they belong and are connected to others in our community. 

We are committed to working with our staff and unions on these and other issues, to continue to support our people and to develop a diverse and inclusive culture at King's. We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.

To find out how our managers will review your application, please take a look at our ‘ How we Recruit’ pages.

Interviews are due to be held in February 2025.

We are able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.

This post is subject to Occupational Health clearances.

Grade and Salary: £44,105 - £45,247 per annum, including London Weighting Allowance
Job ID: 104825
Close Date: 18-Feb-2025
Contact Person: Ivo Lieberam
Contact Details: Ivo.lieberam@kcl.ac.uk