Full Time - Fixed Term for 3 years
Reference: 1061818BJ
A Research Fellow position is available in the laboratory of Mammary Stem Cell Biology & Breast Cancer headed by Dr. Salah Elias at the School of Biological Sciences (SoBS) – University of Southampton (UoS), to study the mechanisms of asymmetric cell division during mammary gland development and homeostasis. The position is available for 3 years tenable from February 2019, funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC).
The Project
Our lab focusses on studying the mechanisms that regulate mammary stem cell fate and dynamics in normal development and breast cancer. This exciting project is a collaboration between our group and Dr. Philip Greulich group based at the Department of Mathematical Sciences at UoS. It will employ combined cutting-edge in vivo single-cell lineage tracing, quantitative three-dimensional (3D) high-resolution imaging and single-cell RNA-sequencing as well as mathematical/computational modelling to (1) identify novel mechanisms that control mitotic spindle orientation in mammary stem cells; and (2) determine how these mechanisms influence cell fate outcomes in the differentiating mammary epithelium. The outcomes of this collaborative project are expected to provide important novel insight into the identity, dynamics and potential of mammary stem cells.
The Successful Candidate
We are looking for a creative, ambitious and skilled Postdoctoral Researcher Scientist willing to challenge an innovative project by adopting a pro-active attitude and an analytical approach, with a strong interest in interdisciplinary collaboration.
You will be responsible for the development of the project, which includes experimental design, data collection and interpretation. You will work in collaboration with Dr. Greulich group who will use mathematical modelling to compare the generated experimental data with predictions from stochastic models for cell fate dynamics, and test the project’s hypotheses via Bayesian inference. You are also expected to contribute to new ideas for research projects, develop ideas for writing grant proposals, prepare scientific reports, write up results for publication in international peer-reviewed journals, assist other members of our group or people working on collaborative projects to become familiar with new methodologies, act as a source of information and advice on scientific protocols.
You will hold a PhD* or equivalent professional qualifications and experience in epithelial stem cell and/or cancer biology (or related field). A strong evidence of proficiency in cell biology and quantitative advanced microscopy in vivo is necessary. You will have experience in animal models and have a personal licence to work with rodents or be prepared to obtain such a licence via attendance of in-house courses. Experience in molecular biology techniques including Next Generation Sequencing is desirable. Basic understanding of computational/mathematical modelling would be advantageous. You will be friendly and have excellent interpersonal skills with a desire to communicate with other researchers whilst maintaining the highest level of professionalism at all times.
The Environment
At SoBS, we use cutting-edge technologies for innovative research to define the basis of human health and disease, and develop interventions that benefit peoples’ lives. There is a strong interdisciplinary research focus bringing together researchers from Biological and Medical Sciences, Computer Sciences, Physics and Mathematical Sciences with experimental work housed in a £45 million building that encompasses cutting-edge research infrastructures. SoBS offers a supportive and dynamic research environment, with comprehensive training and career development opportunities. You will have full access to all resources and undertake appropriate training in the use of the equipment of our state-of-the-art core facilities to accomplish your studies. SoBS has an outstanding Stem Cell and Developmental research theme, in which our group is perfectly embedded, with excellent potential for collaborations that extend to the closely located Cancer Sciences where breast cancer research is very active. You will thrive within a unique international, stimulating and challenging research environment, with an outstanding international research seminar series in addition to Stem Cells and Quantitative Biology-centred meetings co-organized by SoBS and Mathematical Sciences. The proximity of SoBS and Mathematical Sciences and the specialized expertise that each contributes provides a unique environment needed to achieve the maximum impact of this project.
For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Salah Elias
[email protected] in the first instance.
It is anticipated that interviews will take place at the end of November 2018.
Equal Opportunities and Benefits
SoBS holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, demonstrating commitment to equal opportunities and gender balance in the workplace.
The University of Southampton has a generous maternity policy and onsite childcare facilities; employees are able to participate in the childcare vouchers scheme. Other benefits include state-of-the-art on-campus sports, arts and culture facilities, a full programme of events and a range of staff discounts.
Application Procedure
Closing Date: 5th November 2018. However, we encourage early applications as we will be reviewing applications on an on-going basis. Therefore the advert may close before the deadline if suitable candidates are identified. First review date: 29th October 2018
How to Apply: You should submit your completed application form online at
www.jobs.soton.ac.uk. Please include (1) a cover letter outlining your scientific interests, describing how you meet the requirements of the position, and an outline of future goals; (2) a curriculum vitae, (3) contact information for at least two references.
References are requested along with your application, so please allow time for these to be received prior to the close date, to assist the department with shortlisting.
If you need any assistance, please call Samantha Stubbs (Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 4046. Please quote vacancy reference number 1061818BJ on all correspondence.
*Applications will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given..
