Job Description

The Research Fellow will be an integral member of Professor Patani's lab, which is dedicated to uncovering the molecular and cellular processes that drive neurodegeneration, focusing specifically on Motor Neuron Disease (ALS). This role offers an exceptional opportunity to operate within a dynamic team employing cutting-edge human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology to investigate the genetic and molecular underpinnings of motor neuron degeneration.

The successful candidate will be tasked with designing and managing a comprehensive research programme aimed at elucidating the mechanisms contributing to sporadic ALS progression, helping to pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies. They will collaborate closely with data scientists and experimental colleagues to ensure thorough experimental design and accurate data interpretation, maintaining the highest scientific standards throughout.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Leading the conceptualisation, planning, and execution of advanced experimental protocols, ensuring robust and reproducible outcomes that align with the project's objectives.
• Supervising and mentoring undergraduate, postgraduate students, and junior researchers, fostering their professional development and ensuring adherence to best laboratory practices.
• Managing data collection, analysis, and interpretation with meticulous attention to detail, culminating in timely preparation of research findings for dissemination.
• Publishing research results in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and representing the lab at national and international scientific conferences and workshops.
• Contributing to collaborative multidisciplinary projects that enhance the scope and impact of the lab's research portfolio.
• Supporting teaching duties as required, potentially delivering lectures, seminars, or workshops related to neurodegenerative disease mechanisms to students at various levels.
• Maintaining comprehensive and accurate records of experimental procedures and findings, adhering to institutional guidelines and ethical standards.
• Promoting sustainable research practices in line with the Life Sciences Institute’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Qualifications

• PhD in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field specializing in neurodegenerative diseases.
• Substantial research experience in molecular neuroscience, specifically employing induced pluripotent stem cells or equivalent cellular models.
• Proven track record in coding, including familiarity with data analysis and bioinformatics tools relevant to neurobiological research.
• Extensive experience supervising postgraduate students and supporting research teams, demonstrating effective leadership and mentorship skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and effectively to diverse audiences through presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong organisational skills with the capability to multitask and deliver high-quality work under deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with proven success in collaborative multi-disciplinary projects.
• Active engagement in teaching and curriculum development at the university level would be advantageous.
• A commitment to fostering an inclusive research environment, supporting diversity and equal opportunities.