Faculty of Medicine and Health
School of Medicine
Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences
Section of Genetics
Career Development Fellowship in Functional Genomics and/or Bioinformatics
(x2 posts available)
Fixed term for 3 years and available from 1st Jan 2016 on a full-time basis
Applications are invited for this exciting opportunity to join the School of Medicine as part of the
Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (LIBACS). The scientist will be based in the
Section of Genetics within LIBACS at the St James’s hospital site. This is a new investment by the
School to support development of early career researchers in areas of strategic importance to the
School.
The University currently hosts two MRC Centres of Excellence: the MRC Centre for Medical
Bioinformatics (Director: Professor Sir Alex Markham) and the MRC Centre for Single Cell
Functional Genomics (Director: Professor David Bonthron). We are looking for talented, highly
motivated individuals to develop substantial research portfolios in the structural and functional
characterisation of genes and mutations with medical significance. We have an established
pipeline for the identification of novel disease causing genes in the local population. Our aim is to
develop the capacity to functionally characterise novel disease genes by modelling in both cellular
and animal systems. We have established collaborations with industrial partners which will
facilitate the development of stem cell approaches to these problems, and also the use of CRISPRCas9 technology to investigate disease causing genes. We have novel animal models for disorders
which appointees will have access to if they wish. There are excellent links between the Section of
Genetics and the Leeds Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology which enables structural
and functional characterisation of novel genes and mutations using X-ray crystallography, NMR
spectroscopy, and electron microscopy.
The Fellowship is funded for a period of three years to allow the appointee to develop their own
academic research profile, including submission of grant and fellowship applications and
publications in high quality journals. It is expected that research activities undertaken will allow the
Fellow to ultimately secure a personal fellowship.
As a Career Development Fellow, you will progress through a detailed probation plan and will also
receive focused support and mentorship to aid you in achieving these objectives and realising your
potential.
Potential candidates should have expertise in one or more general areas of functional
genomics/bioinformatics, with the following given as examples:
 collation and analysis of large data-sets, specifically the analysis and interpretation of clonal
sequencing data (e.g. whole exome sequencing)
 single-cell functional genomics methods such as transcriptome profiling
 Biochemical or biophysical methods to analyse biochemical interactions between proteins
and/or small molecules
 Biochemical methods to develop assays to interrogate the effect of mutations on protein
fucntions/interactions
 high content imaging and imaging analysis in screen-based methods in cells and/or tissues
 developing your own bioinformatics tools and/or bespoke programs
 application of developmental biology to functional genomics
Our aim is to recruit highly motivated individuals with excellent research profiles who are capable
of developing high profile research projects and who are passionate about working as part of an
interdisciplinary team. The fellowships will appeal to a broad range of candidates from the
biomedical, biological and structural sciences. Researchers in the Section of Genetics work in
close partnership with colleagues at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, we have direct
access to clinical material. Our main areas of clinical research are in neurologic, neuromuscular
and developmental diseases in children but we are also interested in Fellows with interests in other
areas. Candidates must be enthusiastic, highly motivated and demonstrate a high level of relevant
laboratory experience and technical competence. You must have a strong track record in
successful research and a developing publication record in high impact peer reviewed journals.
Adaptability to and enthusiasm for new technologies are desirable and you must show the ability to
manage your time effectively and work under pressure, exhibiting effective interpersonal,
communication, and team-working skills.
You will be expected to collaborate with research teams throughout LIBACS, the School of
Medicine and the wider university. You will contribute to the scientific strategy and teaching
commitments of the institute, including our new BSc courses in Molecular Medicine and Human
Genetics.
The University of Leeds is committed to providing equal opportunities for all and offers a
range of family friendly policies (http://hr.leeds.ac.uk/homepage/4/policies). The University is a
charter member of Athena SWAN and holds the Bronze award. The School of Medicine
gained the Bronze award in 2013. We are committed to being an inclusive medical school
that values all staff, and we are happy to consider job share applications and requests for
flexible working arrangements from our employees.
University Grade 7 (£31,342 – £37,394 p.a) depending upon qualifications and experience
Informal enquiries regarding the post should be directed to Professor Eamonn Sheridan, email
medesh@leeds.ac.uk or Professor David Bonthron email: d.t.bonthron@leeds.ac.uk
If you have any specific enquiries about your online application please contact Colette Cornelly,
email c.l.cornelly@leeds.ac.uk tel +44(0)113 2069229 or Sharon Collins, s.collins@leeds.ac.uk or
telephone 0113 2066949.
Job Ref: MHBCS1020
Closing Date: 27 October 2015
Job Summary
This post will be held within the Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (LIBACS).
Further details of the range of research activities are described on our web pages:
http://medhealth.leeds.ac.uk/info/345/genetics
The Career Development Fellow will specialise in the functional characterisation of disease
causing genes. They will be expected to develop their own academic research profile and foster
academic excellence in their field of excellence. The role will develop over the 3 year term to
support the Fellow securing a competitive external independent fellowship. This includes research
output, teaching, PGR student supervision and other aspects such as leadership, contributing to
strategic initiatives and promoting the development of the School. Mentorship will be provided to
achieve these goals.
Main Duties & Responsibilities

Under the guidance of an academic mentor, plan and manage your own research activity (in
collaboration with others as appropriate), assisting in designing specific strategies towards
achieving the research goals of the project and managing individual components of the study.
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Develop and provide input into the long-term strategy for the development and sustainability of
activities in gene discovery, functional genomics and bioinformatics, including developing and
managing a research group and broadening research, and eventually determining strategy for
own research and providing the lead for others.
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Design experimental procedures and technical details. Evaluate methods, techniques and
results for a wide range of techniques; assess new bioinformatics analysis strategies for
research and for clinical use (as appropriate).
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Develop and maintain significant experience in:
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Molecular and cell biology techniques including but not limited to:
DNA/RNA extraction
PCR for microsatellite genotyping and direct Sanger sequencing
preparation of libraries for whole exome sequencing
animal models
neuroanatomy
mammalian cell culture
transfection with plasmids or siRNA/shRNA reagents
genomic editing with CRISPR-Cas9 reagents
RT-PCR and quantitative (‘real-time’) RT-PCR
biochemical assays of protein-protein interactions using affinity purification methods
(TAP-tagging)
confocal microscopy and live-cell imaging
high content imaging
bioinformatic analyses of data-sets
analysis of sequencing data to identify pathogenic mutations
data analysis to determine positive ‘hits’ in reverse genetics screens
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Generate and pursue independent and original research ideas in the appropriate subject area.
Analyse and interpret the results of own research. Develop methods and techniques applicable
to your own work and for widespread dissemination.
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Generate research output (e.g. publications/presentations). Lead in the writing of high quality
publications in independently peer-reviewed journals of a high international calibre to
underpin high quality research activity.
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Communicate and/or present research results within the Group and Section. Present research
results at conferences at local, national and international levels. Articulate and convey the
impact of research, clearly showing the wider benefits that research could generate.
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Troubleshoot problems with assay design, screening, data analysis and validation and seeking
solutions via published literature, company websites and personal contacts.
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Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory and other records.
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Treat data with confidentiality and in accordance with current policies.
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Build internal contacts and participate in internal networks for the exchange of information and
for future collaboration.
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Work collaboratively with other staff/students within the Group and other research groups as
appropriate, including external collaborators.
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Actively engage with the regional human molecular genetics community, ensuring research
outputs are shared via existing networks and providing specialist knowledge to others.
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Identify future opportunities for research and preparing proposals and funding applications.
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Encourage and promote good working practices within the team and within the Institute.
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Provide guidance, support, training and assistance in relevant techniques to staff and students
within the Institute.
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Be aware of the risks in the laboratory environment and working in accordance with the GM
and COSSH assessments. Contribute to assessments when appropriate.
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Contribute effectively to the development of local learning and teaching / student support
policies.
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Be involved in the supervision of students undertaking research projects as appropriate.
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Contribute effectively to the management and administrative processes and committee
structures of the institute, school, faculty and university.
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As appropriate, provide scientific guidance, giving talks, entertaining visitors and demonstrating
group research to others.
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Maintain own continuing professional development.
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Actively support and adhere to the Faculty’s commitment to Equality and Diversity in line with
the requirements of the Faculty Diversity Action Plan.
Job descriptions cannot be exhaustive and you may be required to undertake other duties that are
broadly in line with the above key responsibilities.
Relationships
The post holder will be responsible on a day-to-day basis to Professor Eamonn Sheridan through
whom they will be accountable to the Head of Section, the Director of the Institute and to the Dean
of the Faculty of Medicine & Health. They will be expected to interact with other members of the
Institute, comprising academics, post-doctoral research fellows, PhD students and research
support staff, and to present data at Group, Section and Institute meetings.
University Values
All staff are expected to operate in line with the university’s values and standards, which work as
an integral part of our strategy and set out the principles of how we work together. More
information about the university’s strategy and values is available at
http://www.leeds.ac.uk/comms/strategy/
Person Specification
Essential

A PhD in molecular/cell biology or a relevant biomedical subject or bioinformatics.

Substantial research experience in molecular genetics, bioinformatics and/or
developmental biology.

A demonstrable interest in medical genetics.

Demonstrable experience in (or an understanding of) biochemical assays, RT-PCR and
quantitative (real time)-PCR, and molecular cloning techniques.

A proven track record of direct sequencing, including whole exome sequencing,
preparative and analysis methodologies.
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Demonstrable experience of trouble-shooting, problem-solving and development of
relevant experimental and bioinformatics protocols.
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Demonstrable working knowledge of modern concepts in molecular genetics, recent
technological advances and relevant theoretical information.
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Proven ability to analyse and interpret research results.
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A strong track-record in biological research and a developing publication record in high
impact peer reviewed journals.
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The ability to work and think independently and lead the planning of a programme of
research in the field whilst building and maintaining collaborations with other researchers
working in related areas.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including written and oral presentation
skills, with the ability to interact across disciplines and levels and drive collaborative
working.
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Experience of managing/mentoring less experienced colleagues and/or undergraduate
and postgraduate students.
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Effective organisational ability, including the time management and task prioritisation and
able to work under pressure
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A demonstrable understanding of health and safety issues within the research setting.
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A demonstrable understanding of translational research.
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Demonstrable knowledge of the scientific literature in the field of the project
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Evidence of successful application for start-up or project grant funding
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Strong IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Office and data analysis packages.
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A willingness to work flexibly, when necessary, to fulfil the needs of the research project.
Desirable
 A research background in the field of human molecular genetics or developmental biology
(or a familiarity with their concepts).
 A demonstrable research background in high-throughput screening methods.
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Willingness to learn and adopt new computational approaches to biological data analysis
(including large data sets), particularly in the development of clinical bioinformatics and
standardised databases.
An interest in new technologies, for example, willingness to expand technological
capabilities in different aspects of next generation sequencing (such as clinical exomes,
target enrichment for gene-centric applications or molecular cytogenetics).
Previous experience of teaching and a willingness to develop more skills in this area.
Faculty Information
With more than 6,000 students, 1,600 staff and annual research income of £50m, the Faculty of
Medicine and Health at Leeds is bigger than some universities. Leeds has one of the largest
medical and bioscience research bases in the UK, and is an acknowledged world leader in cancer,
cardiovascular, psychiatric, genetic, musculo-skeletal and health services research. Treatments
developed in Leeds are transforming the lives of people around the world living with conditions
such as HIV, TB, diabetes and malaria.
The School of Medicine
The School of Medicine at the University of Leeds is a major international centre for research and
education. Our ambition is to improve health and reduce health inequalities, locally and globally,
through excellent scientific research and the translation of that research into healthcare practice,
and through the education of future scientific and clinical leaders who will advocate and practise an
evidence-based approach. Our major strategic aims are to:
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Deliver outstanding research including basic discovery science through to applied health
research that makes a significant difference to health.
Produce exceptional graduates, clinicians, educators, doctoral and post-doctoral fellows
whose learning has been informed and inspired by our research excellence and who will
form the next generation of academic and clinical leaders.
Develop and support knowledge transfer activities that flow from our academic activities.
Create and maintain an efficient and sustainable environment for research and teaching
within an organisational culture and management style that enacts and supports the
university’s core values of community, inclusiveness, integrity and professionalism.
The School of Medicine is organised into seven Institutes. All are committed to high quality
research-led teaching, through their training of postgraduate research students, delivery of
postgraduate taught courses, and its leadership in undergraduate teaching. The School works
closely with the local NHS, having a number of jointly funded clinical posts to ensure this
relationship is effective and strong for both research and student education.
Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (LICAMM) Director: Professor
Mark Kearney
LICAMM integrates basic and clinical scientists with a common goal of understanding the
mechanisms underpinning common chronic diseases of human health and developing new
approaches to treating patients at an individual and population level. At the heart of LICAMM’s
philosophy is a vibrant multidisciplinary approach to science that provides a platform to deliver
internationally competitive translational research and teaching in disorders including cardiovascular
disease, diabetes, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases) our key aim is to improve the lives of
our patients and the experience of our students.
Leeds Institute of Health Sciences (LIHS) Director: Professor Tim Ensor
LIHS delivers problem-driven research that supports decisions about the content or delivery of
healthcare. Our interdisciplinary approach incorporates expertise in applied health research
designs, health implementation sciences, social sciences, health economics, informatics and
statistics, as well as skills in communicating with basic scientists, policy makers, healthcare
providers, public and patients. We conduct research at the individual, population and
organisational level.
Leeds Institute of Medical Education (LIME) Director: Professor Trudie Roberts
LIME provides the administrative support, co-ordination and leadership for the School of
Medicine’s undergraduate medical degree, including admissions, curriculum development,
assessment, student support and clinical placement liaison. It provides the technology-enhanced
learning and innovation support for the School of Medicine. LIME also has a very active
scholarship programme of research and innovation in medical education and uses its expertise to
influence medical education policy and practice nationally and internationally. To achieve this it
works with a range of stakeholders including the academic community, the profession, the public,
regulators and policy makers.
The Leeds Institute of Cancer & Pathology (LICAP) Director: Professor Tim Bishop
The Leeds Institute of Cancer Studies and Pathology addresses both laboratory-based and clinical
research into cancer with a major focus on translational science. LICAP is one of the largest
cancer Institutes’ in the country and has major financial support from the cancer charities. The
laboratories and clinical research are all based on the St James’s site with laboratory activities
being located in the Wellcome Trust Brenner Building and adjacent buildings while the clinical work
is based within Bexley Wing.
Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (LIBACS) Director: Professor Philip
Hopkins
LIBACS undertakes clinically-driven research from the level of the gene through cellular, tissue and
organ to clinical trials. Our vision is to develop a sustainable centre of excellence for the
advancement of patient care by translating research results into clinical practise and contributing to
medical education at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Our research interests are
encapsulated in 6 clinical themes (Gastrointestinal inflammation & tumorigenesis, Genetic
disorders, Infection & immunity, Neuroscience, Perinatal medicine, Perioperative outcomes &
technologies) underpinned by 4 generic science technology strands (Animal models, Cell biology,
Gene regulation & Genomics). We are based predominantly at the St James’s University Hospital
site.
Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine (LIRMM), Director: Professor
Paul Emery
LIRMM is dedicated to improving diagnosis, therapy, intervention and outcome across the
spectrum of rheumatic and musculoskeletal medicine. It boasts a dynamic portfolio of research and
education, delivering wide-ranging clinical, translational and basic research across five Sections:
Clinical Musculoskeletal Medicine, Experimental Musculoskeletal Medicine, Clinical Biomechanics
and Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation Medicine and Orthopaedics. A multi-disciplinary approach is
the core of our activities, with significant interdisciplinary links between Experimental and Clinical
research. LIRMM’s clinical activities are focussed at Chapel Allerton Hospital, which is also base
for our NIHR Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit (LMBRU) and our basic sciences at St
James’s University Hospital.
Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research (LICTR) Director: Professor Julia Brown
LICTR delivers innovative design, delivery and knowledge transfer in clinical trials research. Our
multidisciplinary approach, in collaboration with basic scientists, clinicians, policy makers,
healthcare providers, public and patients and University colleagues, delivers internationally
competitive research and teaching that makes a significant contribution to the evidence base for
healthcare delivery. The Institutes research is conducted through the Clinical Trials Research Unit
where we have expertise in design and conduct of complex clinical trials incorporating novel
designs to evaluate CTIMPs, complex interventions, diagnostics, medical devices and surgery.
St James’s University Hospital Campus Infrastructure and Facilities (SCIF) Director:
Professor Pam Jones
This group covers activities that cover School of Medicine functions for Institutes at St James’s
University Hospital that span more than one institute including biomedical research facilities,
student education, IT, health and safety, estates, seminars, PGR studentships and business
support functions. These functions help support the 5 adjacent buildings on the site.
There are 3 Institutes with staff and students at St James’s: LICAP (Leeds Institute of Cancer
studies and Pathology), LIBACS (Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences), LIRMM
(Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine). These three institutes are dedicated
to basic, translational, clinical and health research integrated with student education.
Terms and Conditions
Details of the terms and conditions of employment for all staff at the university, including
information on pensions and benefits, are available on the Human Resources web pages
accessible via the links on the right hand side, or at http://hr.leeds.ac.uk/policies
Disclosure and Barring Service checks
A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check is not required for this position. However,
applicants who have unspent convictions must indicate this in the ‘other personal details’ section of
the application form and send details to the Recruitment Officer
Disabled Applicants
The post is located in the Wellcome Trust Brenner Building in the St James’s University site.
Disabled applicants wishing to review access to the building are invited to contact the department
direct. Additional information may be sought from the Recruitment Officer, email
disclosure@leeds.ac.uk or tel + 44 (0)113 343 1723.
Disabled applicants are not obliged to inform employers of their disability but will still be covered by
the Equality Act once their disability becomes known.
Further information for applicants with disabilities, impairments or health conditions is
available in the applicant guidance.