Research Associate

This 1-year position is available to carry out research within a Wellcome Trust-funded research programme, which aims to understand how transcription regulation of genes drives mRNA diversification and diverse mRNA fates. The post holder will carry out independent research in cancer genetics and aim to understand how transcription regulation controls mRNA fates upon metabolic stress and metabolic regulation. They will use organoid models to characterise transcriptome profiles of colorectal cancer organoids exposed to various metabolic stresses (hypoxia, mTOR inhibition, nutrient deprivation) and develop novel biomarkers that stratify colorectal cancer organoids responsiveness to mTOR inhibition.

Working with Prof Ferenc Mueller and in collaboration with Professor Andrew Beggs, the post holder will transfect organoids using lentiviral vectors to generate fluorescence reporters and to interfere with transcription factor function. They will operate in dedicated high specification tissue culture space with access to in vivo 4D imaging by light sheet microscopy and high content microscopy.

The post holder will work closely with research fellows working in the Wellcome-funded programme in the Mueller/Beggs laboratories and will train postgraduate students in organoid culture and organoid manipulation tools.

Main Duties:
- Optimise organoid technologies, design and deliver experiments.
- Cataloguing and organisation of organoids and related reagents.
- General molecular biology techniques that contribute towards the development of organoid models.
- Collect research data through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews.
- Analyse research data as directed.
- Assist in managing the experimental laboratories.
- Diagnose and resolve problems and suggest solutions in regard to techniques and experiments.
- Carry out specialist technical and experimental procedures; use own judgement to assess the correct technique to use and consider how these may be improved, referring to PI and senior colleagues for approval on proposed changes/adapting new techniques.
- Maintain accurate records of all techniques and experimental procedures and any other research activities, including results.
- Ensure compliance with legislation relevant to the area of research/activity.
- Comply with and promote the operating procedures for the area, including the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures regulation.
- Contribute to internal and external audit procedures and regulatory inspections as required.
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters.
- Provide guidance to support staff and students assisting with research, including communicating with colleagues at a range of levels and inexperienced students.
- Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research.
- Foster a fair and equitable workplace for all staff.
- Identify and respond to equality and diversity issues in line with relevant university policies and procedures.

Person Specification:
- Degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area.
- Practical experience of applying relevant skills and techniques, including: organoid manipulation tools (e.g. transformation); organoid phenotyping (e.g. molecular analyses of RNA and proteins, imaging); next generation sequencing library preparation.
- Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively.
- Ability to access and organise resources successfully.
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics and duties under the Equality Act 2010, including fostering good relations and advancing the university's Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED).