Postdoctoral researcher – Chromatin Profiling of Mammalian Centromeres
Centre for Chromosome Biology
Biochemistry, School of Natural Sciences
Ref. No. NUIG 20-14
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time fixed term position as a
Postdoctoral Researcher within the Centre for Chromosome Biology at the National University
of Ireland, Galway.
This position is funded by Science Foundation Ireland is available for up to 36 months, (subject to
an initial 12 month probationary period and annual reviews), from 2014.
This postdoctoral position is available in the Laboratory for Cell Biology, directed by Prof.
Kevin F. Sullivan (http://www.chromosome.ie/researchers/sullivan/ ) within the Centre for
Chromosome Biology (http://www.chromosome.ie/) at the National University of Ireland
Galway. The successful applicant will join an internationally collaborative team of
researchers exploiting a novel system for mammalian centromere research established in
equine cells. Using a novel set of satellite-free centromeres discovered in Equus, you will
apply chromatin immunoprecipitation and deep sequencing methods (ChIPSeq) to dissect
the functional organization of mammalian centromeres during critical cell cycle phases.
Resources are available to perform innovative experiments probing the structural
organization, higher order folding and mechanism of transmission of centromere loci in a
mammal. Key questions to be addressed are the organization of chromatin subunits and
modifications within the centromere and the relation of outer kinetochore and inner
centromere components to the centromere itself, defined by CENP-A binding.
The CCB is composed of 11 independent laboratories hosting over 50 researchers, while
NUI Galway boasts an active, vibrant student life with over 17,000 students and
postdoctoral researchers from around the world.
Job Description:
The successful candidate will be required to:
 Establish cell culture methods for cell cycle manipulations of immortalized equine
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cells
Optimize biochemical purification of chromatin fractions for deep sequencing analysis
Participate in data analysis
Contribute to the training of students
Contribute to laboratory management and grant reporting responsibilities
Qualifications/Experience of applicants:
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Must have a PhD in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics or another cognate area of
science
A successful track record in Biomedical research
Evidence of self-directed research capability
Advanced experience in molecular cell biology, including basic biochemistry,
immunochemistry and molecular biology.
Experience with chromatin biochemistry and purification
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Ideal candidates will have experience with data analysis of ChIPSeq datasets
Candidates should have excellent communication and organizational skills
Candidates should be highly motivated and passionate about their research
Candidates should have strong documentation, oral and interpersonal skills.
The ideal candidate would have experience in the field of cell cycle regulation and/or
chromatin biology and will be competitive for applications for independent personal
fellowships.
Starting salary: €38,286 - €43,393 (public sector pay policy rules pertaining to new entrants will apply)
Start date: Position is available from April 2014 until mid-2016 with possibility of funding
extension for an additional year.
Further information on research and working at NUI Galway is available on Research at NUI Galway
For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie
Further information about the Centre for chromosome biology is available at:
http://www.chromosome.ie/ and Biochemistry at: http://www.nuigalway.ie/biochemistry/
Informal enquiries concerning the post may be made, via e-mail, to Professor Kevin Sullivan
kevin.sullivan@nuigalway.ie
To Apply:
Applications to include a covering letter, CV, and the contact details of three referees should be
sent, via e-mail (in word or PDF only) to Professor Kevin Sullivan (kevin.sullivan@nuigalway.ie)
Note: It is essential to put reference number NUIG-20-14 in the subject line of e-mail applications.
Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00pm on Monday 31st March 2014.
National University of Ireland, Galway is an equal opportunities employer.
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