Fixed term, 3 years
Applications are invited for an MRC Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Computational Regulatory Genomics group at the MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS) (http://lms.mrc.ac.uk/).
The Group headed by Prof Boris Lenhard studies gene regulation at the genome-wide level using methods of computational genomics and epigenomics. Members of our team have backgrounds in genetics, biochemistry, mathematics, computer science, machine learning, and clinical psychiatry. The group has a track record of excellence and innovation in computational biology and in applying and developing experimental techniques, with numerous publications in top-tier journals and extensive international collaboration. For more information, visit the group’s website http://group.genereg.net/.
We are looking for a skilled and ambitious postdoctoral researcher with experience in functional genomics, genomics assay development, or related domains. The core objective of our project is to elucidate the molecular and genome-wide processes that underpin transcriptional gene regulation. Our mission is to decode the fundamental grammar governing the use of promoters and enhancers, as well as their interactions throughout pivotal biological events such as development, differentiation, and cell cycle modulation. As a member of our team, you will embark on an intellectually stimulating journey to address seminal questions in gene regulation, innovating and applying state-of-the-art methodologies to achieve nucleotide-resolution analysis of promoter activity data using CAGE, SLIC-CAGE and other genome- and transcriptome-wide assays to understand promoter role in embryogenesis, differentiation and cell cycle control. After becoming acquainted with our research interests, you’ll be empowered to shape the project’s trajectory.
The successful candidate should ideally have a strong scientific curiosity, a demonstrated potential for independent high-impact research, as well as in-depth knowledge of molecular biology. They should demonstrate a consistent record of designing, conducting, and analysing high-throughput sequencing assays, complemented by a solid grounding in experimental techniques of molecular biology and genomics. Familiarity with bioinformatics methods for high-throughput experiment processing is expected, along with an eagerness to delve deeper into computational techniques to use the data to answer biological questions.
Historically, the members of our group have gained world-class skills in computational genomics, data analysis and manipulation, and have moved on to independent academic positions, leading positions in applied bioinformatics, or successful careers in industry. You will be welcomed into our existing collaborations with high-profile researchers and international consortia, and will also have the opportunity to establish your own collaborations. You will be able to present your work at 2-3 international conferences per year.
Keywords: multicellular development, non-coding conservation, cell cycle control, long-range gene regulation, promoters, enhancer-promoter communication, computational genomics, epigenomics
We offer a highly attractive benefits package including a competitive salary, excellent holiday entitlement and a generous pension scheme.
Please complete an online application via the ‘Apply‘ button above and upload your CV and names and contacts of two scientific references with a cover letter stating why you are applying for this role. Please quote reference number LMS 2231.
Closing date: 17 September 2023
*Additional allowances comprise a £1,000 lump sum Settlement Allowance plus a yearly Training Allowance of £850 in the first year, paid in monthly instalments. The Training Allowance increases to £1,300 in year two, and £1,800 in the third year.