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 European Research Council project “METHYLEVOL”.
The successful candidate should have a PhD (or be close to completion) in molecular biology, developmental biology, evolutionary biology or a related field. They should provide evidence of expertise in general molecular biology techniques, and developmental biology (in vitro fertilisation, embryo culture, in situ hybridisation). Some experience in Bioinformatics (phylogenetics, RNA-seq, UNIX command line) is desirable. A proven track record of published research is essential. 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 the cnidarian Nematostella vectensis, combining epigenomics profiling, gene disruption, transcriptomics and proteomics. 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 other regulatory processes.
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 QMUL, 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.
We continue to embrace diversity of thought and opinion in everything we do, in the belief that when views collide, disciplines interact, and perspectives intersect, truly original thought takes form.
The post is full-time and available for 2 years (with the possibility of an extension). The start date would be 1st of August 2021 or as soon as possible thereafter. The salary is in Grade 4-5, in the range of £34,220 - £40,194 per annum and is inclusive of London allowance.
We offer access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days’ leave per annum (pro-rata for fixed-term), season ticket loan scheme and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. We also offer a range of work life balance and family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and an on-site nursery at the Mile End campus.
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.
Before applying, please contact Dr Alex de Mendoza (
[email protected]) with any questions. Please also visit the de Mendoza group: demendozalab.com
For information about the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences please visit
https://www.qmul.ac.uk/sbcs/
