Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Fixed-Term Contract: 20 months

The Opportunity:

The University of Edinburgh is seeking an independent and motivated Postdoctoral fellow to be part of an interdisciplinary team studying skin regeneration in the spiny mouse (Seifert A et al., Nature 2012). After skin autotomy, the spiny is able to fully regenerate dorsal skin with minimal fibrotic response. This project will use complementary approaches/models to study the contribution of specific cells and soluble factors to skin regeneration in the spiny, including: microsurgical mouse models, molecular biology and transcriptomics/proteomics.

The project aims to enhance therapeutic approaches for skin regeneration.

About you: you will hold a PhD (or be near completion) in a relevant biological or life sciences subject (ideally in skin biology). You will possess a strong drive for research, imagination and the ability to develop independent insights into the project. You must be organised, highly self-motivated and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You will need to manage your time effectively, be strongly proactive, knowledgeable and able to solve complex problems. Proven track record of independent manuscripts writing and good laboratory records is also essential.

Lab skills required: The candidate will have ample experience handling murine animal models and can expect to learn (or ideally will have already) microsurgical techniques in diverse murine models (such as skin transplantation and catheterization).

Molecular biology techniques (immunohistochemistry, PCR, WB, etc.) including microscopy experience is essential. Experience performing and analysing single cell sequencing, spatial transcriptomics and proteomics data is highly desirable. Experience handling human skin and isolating, characterizing and culturing primary human/mouse cells (2D and 3D) is desirable.

About us: We are a young and enthusiastic ageing-related research group. Our primary focus is to foster great science and imagination, in an environment that is inclusive, inspirational (and fun). The successful applicant will be supported to learn new skills, and to lead projects independently as well as to support our group. We encourage (and support) independent manuscript/grant writing, presentation of data in national/international conferences and attendance to courses that can help with scientific performance/personal development at all levels.

Your skills and attributes for success:

• A PhD submitted or examined in cell biology, with relevant post-graduate research experience in skin ageing and regeneration
• Proven track record of independent manuscript writing for publication
• Experience with microscopy and transcriptomics (single cell, spatial) and proteomics (including analysing)
• Experience with murine animals models (ideally surgical models, such as skin transplant)
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly, orally and in writing.