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We have a Research Assistant position available in the group of Grzegorz Kudla at the MRC Human Genetics Unit (MRC HGU), University of Edinburgh, to study the genetics of Parkinson’s disease.
The post-holder will perform deep mutational scanning of genes associated with Parkinson’s disease. Deep mutational scanning is an experimental approach where you construct a library of mutated genes, transfect the library into an appropriate human cell line, and analyse the effects of mutations by high-throughput sequencing of barcodes.
You will use methods available in the lab (gene synthesis, saturation mutagenesis, high-throughput phenotypic screens, functional genomics) or develop your own methods to understand how mutations influence molecular function and disease phenotypes. You will collaborate closely with experimental and computational biologists at the MRC HGU (University of Edinburgh) and MRC PPU (University of Dundee) to generate your data and use it to train predictive models of Parkinson’s disease.
The position can be at the level of Senior Research Assistant (UoE grade 6) depending on the level of experience of the candidate, and are funded by the Michael J Fox Foundation for a fixed period of 2 years. The starting date is on the 1 st of April 2024 or as soon as possible after that.
Essential qualifications
- A University degree in molecular, cell or computational biology.
- Keen interest in working at the interface of experimental and computational science.
- Enthusiasm and ability to work as part of a team.
Desirable qualifications
- Experience in synthetic biology, molecular and cell biology, or functional genomics, including conference presentations and publications in international journals.
- Interest in the mechanisms of neurodegenerative disease.
What we offer
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, such as a generous holiday entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, staff discounts, family-friendly initiatives, and flexible work options. Check out the full list on our staff benefits page (opens in a new tab) and use our reward calculator to discover the total value of your pay and benefits.
Championing equality, diversity and inclusion
The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.
Prior to any employment commencing with the University you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages (opens new browser tab).
The University is able to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. If successful, an international applicant requiring sponsorship to work in the UK will need to satisfy the UK Home Office’s English Language requirements and apply for and secure a Skilled Worker Visa.
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