An ambitious EC-funded research initiative on epigenetics advancing towards systems biology

MRC Clinical Sciences Centre / Imperial College London

Description

The Epigenetic Regulation of Metabolism group investigates the role of oxygen regulated non-coding RNAs in cardiomyopathy, with a specific focus on the impact of these non-coding RNAs on cardiomyocyte metabolism, growth and contractile regulation.

The proposed project builds on the observation that functional inactivation of enhancer-transcribed RNAs (eRNA), a subtype of non-coding RNAs, impacts cardiac physiology and pathophysiology. These data indicate a critical requirement for eRNA function in the development and maintenance of pathologic stress-induced cardiac hypertrophy. Based on these findings, a number of projects will be available to study the function and the underlying mechanism through which specific oxygen-regulated eRNAs contribute to the maladaptive reprogramming events associated with the diseased state.

These projects aim to expand our current understanding of oxygen-signalling pathways in heart biology and disease and to provide a framework for the development of clinically-relevant eRNA-targeting antisense RNAs strategies for the treatment of human heart disease.
State of the art techniques will be employed including sophisticated and novel in vivo genetic mouse models, ChIP-seq, RNA-seq, metabolomics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, in vivo physiology, imaging and electrophysiology.

We are seeking highly motivated individuals with a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant field with a strong background in epigenetics, non-coding RNAs or heart biology. Previous experience in relevant techniques (ChIP, RNA-seq, Northerns, Southerns) would be an advantage but is not required to apply. Good communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to work independently are expected.

For more information email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Qualifications

You will have a PhD or equivalent in cell/molecular biology, an outstanding publication record and a commitment to scientific excellence.

Salary

£30916 - £41674

This post is a Career Development Fellowship to support post-doctoral scientists in early or changed career training and help establish them as a successful research scientist in their chosen field. It is initially a 3-year training and development post, which incorporates both scientific and transferable skills training.

Application details

Applications are handled by the RCUK Shared Services Centre

and submit your CV and a short statement of your research background and interests. If you are unable to apply online please contact us on 01793 867003 quoting reference IRC95191.

Relavant web link: http://www.csc.mrc.ac.uk/Research/Groups/GMC/DiseaseEpigenomics/