Postdoctoral Scientist in Single Cell Biology of Hematopoietic Ageing

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and ambitious Postdoctoral Scientist to join Professor Claus Nerlov at the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine (WIMM). The postholder will be based in the Nerlov laboratory and work closely with both Professor Nerlov and Professor Katja Simon at the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology.

The Nerlov laboratory is world-leading in the study of hematopoietic stem- and progenitor cells and the biology of hematopoietic ageing using the mouse as model system. They have identified TGF1 and IL-6 as key negative regulators of lymphopoiesis and erythropoiesis in normal physiological ageing. The successful applicant will combine pharmacological inhibition with single cell molecular profiling (scATACseq, scRNAseq) and functional studies (transplantation and colony forming assays) of hematopoietic stem- and progenitor cells, and immunisation assays and characterization of the resulting immune response, in order to identify the cellular, epigenetic and transcriptional mechanisms whereby TGF1 and IL-6 inhibition improves erythrocyte and naïve lymphocyte production in the aged hematopoietic system, thereby counteracting anaemia and immune decline, two key morbidities associated with physiological ageing.

You will hold a PhD (or near to completion: thesis submitted) in a relevant area such as the study of haematopoiesis, ageing biology, or immunology. A strong publication record in high-impact peer-reviewed journals (at least two second tier or one first tier first author publication(s)) is a prerequisite, as is the ability to work independently and as part of a team. You will have strong communication and organisational skills, with the ability to manage and independently drive, innovate and complete your own research and associated activities. Bioinformatics expertise (RNAseq, ATACseq, single cell analysis) including coding in “R”, is desirable.

This position is available full time and is fixed term for 2 years, funded by the UK Medical Research Council (MRC).

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application.

The closing date for this position is noon on Monday 12 October 2020.

Reference:147589