The Reconstructive Surgery & Regenerative Medicine Research Group based in Swansea University (
www.reconregen.com) is inviting applications for two three year positions, starting in October 2014, following award of a UK Regenerative Medicine Platform Stage II Diseased focused grant (one of only four awarded in the UK). This young multidisciplinary group of highly motivated clinical and academic researchers are working towards developing solutions for cartilage repair that will use articular cartilage specific progenitor cells.
Position 1: A cell/molecular biologist or bioengineer is required to culture-expand articular cartilage chondroprogenitors using microcarriers and bioreactor technologies. Analysis of cells in various stages of the expansion protocol will include FACS, telomere length, telomerase and biomarker analysis. Your goal is to develop the methodology to provide clinicians with stem cells ready for implantation. You will have to work independently to develop innovative solutions to problems that arise in the course of your project. We expect that you will, in parallel, help with developing the technology of bioprinting microcarriers to form osteochondral constructs for cartilage repair.
Position 2: A cell/molecular biologist or bioengineer is required to develop the labs current expertise in articular cartilage maturation. Specifically, you will need to determine the optimum conditions for inducing maturation in cartilage constructs made using stem cells. Your work will require expertise in stem cell isolation, cell culture, RNA isolation, qPCR, immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis, experience in structural and biomechanical analysis of tissue-engineered constructs is not necessary but would be advantageous. Experience of bioinformatics and sequencing technologies will be useful.
Both positions are ideal for early career researchers (Postdoctoral research assistant: PDRA) looking to establish their reputations in a highly competitive but exciting field of research. You will be in a highly supportive environment in a leading international lab with great opportunities for advancement. Ideally, candidates will be able to show evidence of their competence and have the appropriate credentials. We are looking for motivated candidates who can demonstrate creative and innovative approaches to problem solving. Please send your expression of interest and CV to the email address listed stating clearly which position you are applying for and why. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview in September 2014.
