MRC Postdoctoral Research Scientist LMS 1852

Overall purpose:

The Chromatin & Development group, led by Dr Michelle Percharde, investigates mechanisms of chromatin and transposon regulation in early mammalian development.

The lab is looking for a wet/dry lab postdoc to investigate novel aspects of chromatin and transposon regulation in human development versus disease. We are interested in understanding their contribution to mammalian gene regulatory networks, describing novel roles for transposons, and exploring how their regulation and function become mis-regulated in pathologies such as aging and cancer. We are particularly interested in how transposon expression can have distinct consequences depending on the cellular context. This postdoc would suit a creative individual who is enthusiastic to explore some of the lab’s questions and/or motivated to develop their own questions within the lab’s research scope. Techniques routinely employed in the group include mouse and human ESC/iPSC culture, genome-wide chromatin and transcriptomic assays, CRISPR-Cas9 screening, bioinformatics, imaging, molecular embryology and transposon manipulation. The successful candidate will have a strong background in one or more of the following: gene regulation in development/disease, transposon biology or epigenetics.

Main Responsibilities:

To think independently, design experiments and conduct high-quality research in line with the agreed project aimsTo critically analyse and present data, ensuring reliability, reproducibility and statistical robustnessTo keep abreast of current published research and preprints, and integrate findings into own project ideas and techniquesTo develop new techniques and protocols as necessary for the projectTo attend all lab and related research meetings, and to present work when requiredTo assist others and co-supervise students when requiredTo attend and contribute to journal clubs and seminar presentationsTo present data at national and international meetings (where and when appropriate)To help with the daily running of the lab by assisting with general lab duties as required

Additional information:

This is an MRC Postdoctoral Scientist position, which provides training and development to support post-doctoral scientists in early or changed career paths, helping to establish them as a successful research scientist in their chosen field. The position is available to be filled immediately but start date can be flexible.

Applicants should have a PhD (or be in the final stages of completing one) in a relevant discipline, a commitment to scientific excellence, and enthusiasm to work as part of a team.