UCD Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1

Applications are invited for a Fixed-term post until 28 February 2026 of a UCD Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1 within UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Sciences

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Fibroblastsare structural cells with a key role in tissue repair and healing. Recent evidence from studies investigating the composition of the intestinal mucosa have shown the existence of multiple fibroblast phenotypes. Of great interest, a fibroblast with an inflammatory genetic signature that is virtually absent in the healthy intestinal mucosa has been found in biopsies from IBD patients, including those from patients that display resistance to currently available therapies. However, little is known about the mediators and environmental factors that contribute to pathogenic fibroblast differentiation and the specific roles of this novel fibroblast phenotype in inflammation. Our lab has recently identified several mediators that promote the differentiation of colonic fibroblasts to an inflammatory phenotype. Moreover, we have compelling evidence suggesting that these cytokine-driven inflammatory fibroblasts contribute to immune cell recruitment and activation. The aim of this project is to evaluate the mechanisms that control these fibroblast-immune cell interactions and investigate their impact in IBD. For this, our lab uses a combination of in vitro primary cultures, co-culture systems, IBD biopsies and animal models of colitis.

This is a research focused role, where you will conduct a specified programme of research supported by research training and development under the supervision and direction of a Principal Investigator.

The primary purpose of the role is to further develop your research skills and competences, including the processes of publication in peer-reviewed academic publications, the development of funding proposals, the mentorship of graduate students along with the opportunity to develop your skills in research led teaching.

In addition to the Principal Duties and Responsibilities listed below, the successful candidate will also carry out the following duties specific to this project:

* Develop and implement co-culture models using primary fibroblasts and human monocytes/macrophages.

* Develop and implement 3D organotypic models.

* Contribute to animal models of colitis, recording disease measurements and collecting and processing samples for histology, protein and flow cytometry analyses.

* Process and analyse fresh human specimens (biopsies) obtained through our network of clinical collaborators.

Participate actively in collaborative initiatives between the Manresa lab and other national and international collaborators.

Fixed Salary: €41,209 per annum

Closing date: 17:00hrs (local Irish time) on 29th of November 2022

Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time of 17:00hrs (Local Irish Time) on the specified closing date will be cancelled automatically by the system. UCD are unable to accept late applications.

UCD do not require assistance from Recruitment Agencies. Any CV's submitted by Recruitment Agencies will be returned.

Prior to application, further information (including application procedure) should be obtained from the Work at UCD website: https://www.ucd.ie/workatucd/jobs/ .