University of Cambridge
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science
Vacancy Ref. RG07215
Salary: £28,982 to £37,768
Limit of tenure applies*
We are seeking an outstanding postdoctoral applicant interested in using human stem cell-based
models to investigate the molecular and cellular basis of obesity. Many genes that contribute to
obesity are known, but their role in causing disease is still poorly understood. The hypothalamic
neurones that regulate feeding behaviour can now be generated from human pluripotent stem
cells. You will join a collaborative effort led by Dr. Florian T. Merkle, Prof. Sir Steve O’Rahilly, and
Prof. Sadaf Farooqi to interrogate the phenotypic consequences of obesity-associated genes in
human hypothalamic neurones. This position at the Institute of Metabolic Science at the University
of Cambridge offers the opportunity to work in an intellectually stimulating environment using cutting-edge techniques.
In this role, you will edit the genomes of human pluripotent stem cells to introduce candidate mutations, differentiate these edited cells into hypothalamic neurone types, and characterise the resulting phenotypes using a variety of imaging, sequencing, and biochemical approaches. You will be
expected to collect and analyse data, present the findings within the Institute and at national and
international meetings, and prepare and submit research for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
You will also assist in the preparation of research proposals to funding bodies and contribute to the
training of other group members.
To be considered for this position, you must:
- possess a Ph.D. in neuroscience, genetics, cell biology, or a related field
- have a publication record that demonstrates scientific rigour and productivity
- be self-motivated, creative, and curious
- possess excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills
You should have experience with:
- molecular biology (esp. cloning and CRISPR/Cas9 technology)
- neurobiology (esp. neurophysiology, calcium imaging, and development)
- tissue culture (esp. stem cell and neuronal culture)
Applications, including CV and a covering letter describing why you think you would be a good fit for
this position should be submitted on-line. Ref. RG07215 on http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/
Informal enquiries can be made to Dr. Florian Merkle, Metabolic Research Laboratories, Level 4,
Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Box 289 Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge
CB2 0QQ. Email: fm436@medschl.cam.ac.uk
Closing date: 18th January 2016
*The funds for this post are available for 36 months in the first instance