Applications are invited for a Research Associate position to work with Dr. Ximena Soto (MRC-CDA Fellow) in the Division of Molecular and Cellular Function (MCF)
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2680-1837
The Project Title is: Understanding Spinal Cord Regeneration; The Role of Dynamic Gene Expression
Progenitors react to spinal cord injury by reactivating similar signalling pathways and transcription factors (TFs) in both regenerative and non-regenerative species. However, it is likely that differences in the activity and dynamic expression of TFs can lead to different cell-fate decisions such as forming a scar or generating new neurons, in non-regenerative and regenerative species, respectively.
To understand how regenerative species reactivate neural stem cells to initiate proliferation and generate new neurons we aim to address the functional importance of dynamic gene expression underlying spinal cord regeneration and the mechanism by which microRNAs regulate it using zebrafish as an animal with regenerative capacity. The project will:
You will interact closely with the principal investigator and will be expected to contribute intellectually and take ownership of the project. In addition, although you will be based in Manchester, short visits to collaborators may be required for project development. Finally, you will also be expected to attend appropriate training and workshops in order to strengthen and expand your skill sets.
You will have a Ph.D. degree or equivalent in developmental biology, molecular biology or a related area of research, and a BSc (hons) in a relevant biological sciences discipline. You will have extensive and up-to-date theoretical and practical knowledge in at least one of the following: developmental biology; molecular biology; regeneration. You will have excellent technical skills and extensive experience in several of the following techniques: zebrafish transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis in zebrafish, zebrafish larvae live imaging, fluorescent in situ hybridisation techniques, use of image analysis software, fluorescence microscopy.
This is a full-time fixed term appointment starting 01 September 2023, or as soon as possible thereafter, and is funded for 36 months (extendable for 24 more months).
The School is committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women’s careers in STEMM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) in higher education. The School holds a Bronze Award for their commitment to the representation of women in the workplace and we particularly welcome applications from women for this post. All appointments will be made on merit. For further information, please visit: https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/about/equality/
What you will get in return:
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.
Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Ximena Solo
Email: ximena.soto@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
