Postdoctoral Research Assistant

Department: School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences
Salary: £37,182 - £42,405 per annum (Grade 4)
Reference: 1666
Location: Mile End
Date posted: 18 March 2024
Closing date: 16 April 2024

Further details and apply

About the Role

A Postdoctoral Research Assistant position is available at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) to work with Dr Alex de Mendoza. The post-holder will be funded by the ERC Starting Grant on a project entitled “Deciphering the Evolution and Roles of cytosine DNA methylation across eukaryotes”.

This research position will work on a project aimed at understanding the role of DNA methylation in various unicellular and multicellular eukaryotic species. These species hold key phylogenetic positions aimed at maximizing our taxon sampling, allowing ancestral reconstruction of DNA methylation functions across the tree of life of eukaryotes. We use a combination of functional genomics approaches to rigorously test the roles of DNA methylation in some of these species. Additionally, in vitro methods will be used to understand the role of DNA methylation “readers” in these species. This project will investigate comparative epigenomics of early animal evolution, and the impact of viral endogenization in epigenome evolution. The findings from the project will address long-standing questions in epigenetics research, providing mechanistic insights into how one of the most studied base modifications arose. The post holder will join a multidisciplinary, diverse, inclusive team with frequent meetings, interactions, and high-quality mentoring.

About You

The ideal candidate for the position should have a PhD (or be close to completion) in molecular and/or evolutionary biology, with significant experience in epigenetics general molecular biology techniques and/or bioinformatics. A track record of high-quality published research would be an advantage. Previous experience in DNA methylation and Nanopore sequencing is desirable, comparative genomics and transposable element biology or virology is also helpful. Self-motivation, ability to work as part of a team and excellent research management and presentation skills are essential. We will provide a supportive and encouraging environment and training where needed.

About the School

The School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences is one of the largest Schools within Queen Mary University of London and is committed to excellence in research and teaching. 

About Queen Mary
At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable.

Throughout our history, we’ve fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence. And we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it’s simply ‘the right thing to do’ but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers.

Our reformer heritage informs our conviction that great ideas can and should come from anywhere. It’s an approach that has brought results across the globe, from the communities of east London to the favelas of Rio de Janeiro.

We continue to embrace diversity of thought and opinion in everything we do, in the belief that when views collide, disciplines interact, and perspectives intersect, truly original thought takes form.

Benefits
In return, we offer 30 days’ leave per annum, access to a pension scheme, a season ticket loan scheme and competitive salaries. We also offer enhanced family friendly leave, and an on-site nursery at the Mile End campus. You will also work with a friendly team, with personal development opportunities.

Queen Mary’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability.

Further details and apply