A Postdoctoral Research Assistant position is available at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) in Dr. Alex de Mendoza’s group, to work on the ERC-funded project “METHYLEVOL”.
The successful candidate should have a PhD (or be close to completion) in molecular biology, genetics, evolutionary biology or a related field. They should provide evidence of expertise in general molecular biology techniques, and preferably developmental biology. Additionally, bioinformatics skills would be beneficial (RNA-seq analysis, programming in R or python), as well as a background and/or strong interest in evolutionary biology. A proven track record of published research is highly desirable. Self-motivation, an ability to lead a project and excellent research management and interpersonal skills are essential.
The post-holder will conduct research on the evolution of DNA methylation in animals. The project involves functional evaluation of DNA methylation in cnidarians, as a model system to understand the fundamental roles of this epigenetic mark in the animal kingdom. The project will combine functional assays (morpholinos, microinjections) with epigenomic profiling (EM-seq, Nanopore, ATAC-seq, single-cell RNA-seq), and in vitro assays. The role will involve laboratory work, however plenty of opportunities for bioinformatics training will be available. The outcomes of the project will reappraise the functions of DNA methylation in non-vertebrates, aiming to understand how this epigenomic layer has shifted its roles across evolution, and what consequences DNA methylation had on genome regulatory mechanisms.
The post is full-time and available for 2 years, with extensions for up to 5 years with a start date of 1 September 2022 or as soon as possible thereafter. The salary is in Grade 4-5, in the range of £33,824 – £40,797 per annum and is inclusive of London allowance. Benefits include access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days’ leave per annum, a season ticket loan scheme and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. Additionally, we offer a range of work life balance and family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and campus facilities including an on-site nursery at the Mile End campus.
Queen Mary is one of the top research-led universities in the UK and was ranked 9th among the UK multi-faculty universities in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014). All postdoctoral researchers are part of the QMUL Doctoral College, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.
At Queen Mary, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable. Throughout our history, we’ve fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence and we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it’s simply ‘the right thing to do’ but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers.
Queen Mary’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability.
For enquiries, get in touch with Dr Alex de Mendoza via: [email protected] before the application.
For information about the School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences please visit https://www.qmul.ac.uk/sbbs/
For information about the de Mendoza group visit demendozalab.com
The closing date for applications is 7 June 2022. Interviews will be held shortly thereafter.
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