Postdoctoral Scientist | Cell Biology | Dr Madeline Lancaster | LMB 2243

Overall Purpose

To work within the group of Dr Madeline Lancaster at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme on brain development in cerebral organoids. Specifically, the project will investigate the mechanisms underlying interaction of sex hormones and genetics in neurogenesis. In addition, the research will investigate the roles of microRNAs in human neural stem cells.

Main duties

• To undertake research on human cerebral organoids treated and perturbed with genetic approaches and analysed through a combination of imaging and omics approaches.
• To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
• To present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
• To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field.
• To draft scientific papers, and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.
• To contribute to the LMB’s mission in the public engagement of science, and the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.
• To assist in the training of PhD students and other members of the LMB.

Key responsibilities

Within the overall direction of the programme, the group, the remit of the project and in discussion with the Group Leader, you will make a significant input into determining the direction of the project within a 2-year lifespan.

To plan your own work and objectives on a 12-month basis and manage your experimental work within the project along with your Supervisor.

To work with limited supervision to identify, develop, modify and apply the necessary techniques to achieve the goals of the project.

To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods where required.

To ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.

To contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, training of others and taking responsibility for use of communal facilities.

To enhance your research and generic skills through a tailored development programme.

Working relationships

You will report to Dr Madeline Lancaster and will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support staff and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external groups as necessary.

Additional information

This is a 2-year training and development position for a Postdoctoral Scientist who has recently completed their doctoral studies, is moving into a new research discipline or has limited experience of key transferable skills. We support Postdoctoral Scientists with a range of formal and on-the-job training, including:

• MRC training courses.
• External training and personal development courses.
• One-to-one training with your Supervisor and other Scientists.

You will commit to undertaking the following:

• Developing and following a personal development plan.
• Attending training courses.
• Identifying additional training which will support you to develop your career.

Person Requirements

Academic qualifications

These should include a PhD in a relevant subject or due to complete a PhD within six months.

Technical skills and expertise

Experience of and ability to perform techniques relevant to the project. Experience of neural organoids, bioinformatics, and human pluripotent stem cell culture and genetic manipulation are required for this role. Particularly useful would be experience of analysis of single cell RNA‑seq, histological analysis, and live imaging.

Track record of research

This will include achievements, and contributions to published papers.

Other relevant evidence of

• Commitment.
• Originality.
• Ability to communicate.
• Working with others.

Corporate/Local responsibilities & requirements

You must at all times carry out your responsibilities with due regard to the UKRI:

• Code of Conduct
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
• Health and Safety policy
• Data Protection policy

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI.

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.

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