<!--anchor--> <!--anchor--> Gene Therapy Post-Doctoral Scientist <!--anchor-->

The successful candidate will be part of a team generating viral vector gene therapy reagents aimed at treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and fronto-temporal dementia (FTD) on a commercially funded project. The aim of the project is to optimise the dose and delivery of gene supplement and knock-down vectors in cellular and animal models of disease as proof of concept and efficacy for potential clinical application. Working with Professor Shaw and Dr Youn Bok Lee they will join a team of Post-doctoral Scientists, Technicians and PhD students analysing cells and tissues transduced with plasmid and vector constructs and quantify the effects on target gene expression. They will be responsible for generating novel plasmid and Adeno Associated Viral (AAV) vectors and testing their potency in cellular and animal models. Essential molecular and cellular biology skills include: gene cloning, purifying plasmid DNA, cell culture, transfection and the quantification of vector genomes, expressed mRNA and protein. All experiments will be undertaken at a very high standard and all data treated with complete confidentiality. This post offers an exciting and rewarding opportunity to pursue a career in Gene Therapy in Academia or Industry.  

This post will be offered on an a fixed-term contract to  December 31st 2022 

This is a full-time  post - 100% full time equivalent

• Designing and cloning novel genes into plasmid vectors  

• Transfection of cultured cell lines and primary cells by plasmids and vectors 

• Protein detection by Immunocytochemistry and western blot 

• Processing animal tissues for immunohistochemistry and western blotting 

• Image tissues using slide scanning and confocal microscopes 

• Perform image analysis using advanced analytical software tools 

• Conduct statistical analysis on the data generated 

• Prepare manuscripts for publication 

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.  

Skills, knowledge, and experience

• In vitro and in vivo experimental methods 

• Transfection of cell lines and primary cell cultures 

• Tissue collection and processing for immunohistochemistry and biochemistry 

• Advanced microscopy using confocal imaging  

• Quantitative image analytical software and statistical analyses 

• AAV gene transduction and expression 

Essential criteria  

1. PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or Neuroscience 

2. Extensive experience of cloning genes into expression plasmids 

3. Experience in plasmid and/or viral vector cellular transduction 

4. DNA and RNA extraction, sequencing and quantification by RTPCR 

5. Experience of protein quantification by ELISA and western blot 

6. Experience of immunocytochemistry and advanced microscopy 

7. Sectioning animal tissues and performing immunohistochemistry 

8. Willing to work occasionally during weekends and bank holidays 

9. Willing to prepare manuscripts for publication

Desirable criteria

10. Designing microRNA and shRNA 

11. Quantification of RNA by FISH  

12. Production of AAV, Adeno or Lenti viral vectors 

13. In viitro and in vivo transduction using AAV, Adeno or Lenti viral vectors 

Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting award of their PhDs will be considered. In these circumstances the appointment will be made at Grade 5, spine point 30 with the title of Research Assistant. Upon confirmation of the award of the PhD, the job title will become Research Associate and the salary will increase to Grade 6. 

Please contact Professor Shaw 

This post is subject to Disclosure and Barring Service and Occupational Health clearance. 

Gene Therapy, In Vivo, Histology