(Senior) Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Main Purpose of the Job

The (Senior) Postdoctoral Research Scientist will join the Wojtowicz lab who investigate the effect of diet on the function of the immune and hematopoietic system.

They will study how diet and infection modulate the activity of single immune cells including platelets. The project builds on our recent work where we have observed significant changes in the hematopoietic and immune system function upon acute inflammation in animals undergoing dietary intervention.

In this project, the successful candidate will utilise cell lines, primary animal samples, microfluidics platforms and state of the art flow cytometry, to address fundamental questions in platelet biology, heterogeneity and response to activation.

This position will also involve the technical development of microfluidic single cell encapsulation methods and consecutive analysis by flow cytometry.

The candidate will work closely with the Macaulay group on implementation of the microfluidics and will obtain training from the FACS facility manager to use available FACS analyzer. They will have access to the analysis software and can obtain support from other group members for the data analysis.

This position is available at an SC6 level but candidates with sufficient experience in the highlighted areas could be appointed as a Senior Postdoctoral Research Scientist at level SC5.

Key Relationships

Internal: Line manager, group members and, as necessary, other researchers, research support staff and students across the Institute.
External: Industry partners and collaborators across the Norwich Research Park, Nationally and Internationally

Main Activities & Responsibilities

Percentage

Establishing microfluidics protocol for cell/platelet encapsulation

50

FACS analysis of encapsulated cells/platelets

15

Implementation of platelet isolation and activation assays

15

Data analysis and interpretation of generated data

10

As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post

10

Depending on experience and qualifications, the successful candidate could participate in supervision of students, leading projects and collaborations, and leading on the preparation of data/information for grant proposals [essential for SC5 role]

Education & Qualifications

Requirement

Importance

PhD in cell or molecular biology or equivalent

Essential

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

Requirement

Importance

Ability to troubleshoot protocols

Essential

Ability to critically review literature

Essential

Knowledge of flow cytometry or microfluidics

Essential

Familiarity with the analysis software for flow data

Desirable

A strong track record of independent or semi-independent research in molecular biology [essential for SC5 role]

Desirable

Relevant Experience

Requirement

Importance

Experience in writing reports and communicating results to a wider community

Essential

Experience of planning experiments and discussing results

Essential

Ability to support the lab operation and development through stock taking, ordering, writing and updating SOPs

Essential

Experience in animal work

Desirable

Experience in flow cytometry

Desirable

Leading projects and collaborations [essential for SC5 role]

Desirable

Preparing data / information for grant proposals [essential for SC5 role]

Desirable

Management and Leadership

Requirement

Importance

Experience overseeing day-to-day management of the lab [essential for SC5 role]

Desirable

Previous experience of supervising students [essential for SC5 role]

Desirable

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Requirement

Importance

Clear presentation of ideas-oral and written

Essential

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Essential

Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work well as part of the team

Essential

Demonstrated ability to work independently, showcasing initiative and applying problem solving skills

Essential

Excellent time management and organisational skills

Essential

Ability to support the lab operation and development through stock taking, ordering, writing and updating SOPs, mentoring other group members [essential for SC5 role]

Desirable

Additional Requirements

Requirement

Importance

Attention to detail

Essential

Promotes equality and values diversity

Essential

Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute

Essential

Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate

Essential

Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work

Essential

Ability to undertake occasional travel (national and international) related to collaborations and/or seminars

Desirable