Research Fellow
Vacancy Ref: : 039227
Closing Date : 14-Apr-2017
Contact Person : IGMM HR
Contact Number : 0131 651 8685
Contact Email : igmmhr@igmm.ed.ac.uk
We are looking for a self-motivated, enthusiastic Research Fellow to join the group of Professor Chris Ponting.
Job Purpose
You would be joining an internationally successful research group who are investigating the post-transcriptional roles of candidate long noncoding RNAs in regulating mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Using diverse experimental technologies we would be identifying the underlying molecular biology of the mechanism of action of these lncRNAs in addition to exploring their biomedical relevance in appropriate disease models.
Main Responsibilities
- Design, execute and interpret experiments to investigate the molecular function of candidate lncRNAs
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records to document the research progress.
- Take a lead role in writing up data for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
- Present data at group and section meetings
- Contribute to the dissemination of research at national and international meetings.
- Establish and maintain knowledge relevant to both lncRNAs and mitochondrial biology
- Provide guidance and supervision for student projects and instruction of students
Planning and Organising
The post-holder will plan and manage their own programme of research activity, to ensure that the research is conducted in accordance with the research timetable.
Problem Solving
The post holder is expected to resolve most problems using accumulated experience, with only the more challenging, non-standard issues reported to the line managers for assistance. To use creativity, initiative and knowledge to identify areas for research, develop new research methods, and diversify the research parameters. Use initiative and experience to analyse and interpret research data, and draw conclusions from it. Use initiative to help other researchers in the team to resolve project problems and develop new techniques and methods, as appropriate.
Decision Making
Taken independently: Organise own workload according to priority and adapt as necessary, setting of short-term time-lines, design experimental set-up to address specific research aims
Level of Direction Given: CPP and TMS as line managers will offer general orientation and advice, in addition to support in developing and implementation of research strategy.
Key Contacts/Relationships
Internal: Line Managers: CPP (overall) and TMS (day-to-day). Other members of the laboratory and other laboratories within the Institute. The research team will consist of four post-doctoral researchers (both laboratory and computational), one technician and one PhD student.
External: Participate in collaborations in Edinburgh, nationally and internationally.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Knowledge
Essential: Awarded, or soon-to-be-awarded, PhD in relevant discipline.
Skills and experience
Essential:
- Experience with a broad range of molecular biology/biochemistry techniques including quantitative PCR, vector construction, western blotting, cell culture,
- Mammalian cell culture including primary human cell lines
- Good computer skills (at a minimum word processing and spreadsheets)
- Animal handling experience/home office personal licence
Desirable:
- Experience with mitochondrial biochemistry
- Familiarity with cell based assays
- Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering
- miRNA detection and quantification
- Confocal microscopy
- experience with automation
Personal skills/behaviours/qualities:
Essential:
- Ability to conduct high quality research
- Self motivated
- Good interpersonal skills for working within the group and with collaborators
- Effective presentation skills to present to the group, the unit and at scientific meetings
- Ability to maintain clear and accurate records
- Ability to work flexible hours when needed
Desirable:
- One or more first authorship papers that have good-to-high impact