We are seeking a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher to join Dr. Simon Poland’s advanced microscopy development group at the Comprehensive Cancer Centre at King’s College London. The overall goal of this research project is to develop novel imaging strategies which will enable the complete interrogation of tumour derived spheroid models. The successful candidate will design and develop advanced light sheet microscopy instrumentation to acquire aberration-free images and functional information of large 3D cell culture models non-invasively, at high-speed and at high resolution. They will collaborate with several cancer research scientists at King’s, where this technology will then be exploited to image tumour spheroid cultures and investigate several key interactions between cancer cells, other constituent cells and the extracellular matrix in the tumour microenvironment. The successful applicant must have attained a PhD degree (or close to completion) in Physics, Engineering, or related subject and must have extensive prior experience in both optical design and microscopy development. Previous knowledge and experience in the development of bespoke microscopy platforms (i.e. fluorescence light-sheet, confocal and multi-photon) are essential for this position. The candidate will be required to utilise high powered femtosecond laser sources, integrate diffractive optical elements for beam-shaping and adaptive optic correction, assist in the design of bespoke optics and incorporate state-of-the-art detector technologies into existing microscope platforms. The appointee will be expected to work in an interdisciplinary team at the life sciences interface, co-ordinating with biological collaborators and providing leadership to junior researchers. They will be responsible for the delivery of internationally competitive research with emphasis placed on highly motivated, team-oriented, creative individuals able to independently tackle original scientific projects.
Key Responsibilities:
Design and construction of advanced optical imaging platforms for 3D Cell culture imaging
To work with others in the broader research environment to facilitate in the functional imaging of Spheroid and organoid 3D tissue models
Develop data analysis methods appropriate for 3D imaging
To write publications for appropriate scientific journals and to present research findings at scientific meetings
Support and nurture staff to independence to achieve their potential whilst further developing your leadership skills
Participate in project meetings, including symposia and workshops.
Collaborate with physicists and biologists at KCL
Write up results of your own research
Liaise with internal and external research colleagues and support staff on research matters
Make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding and form relationships for future collaboration
Communicate material of a specialist or highly technical nature
Plan own research and co-ordinate work with that of others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
Make use of novel and innovative research techniques and methods
Deal with problems which may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
Contribute to collaborative decisions making affecting the work of the team
Actively participate as a member of the Comprehensive Cancer Centre
Collaborate with academic colleagues on areas of shared research interest
Attend and contribute to relevant meetings
To demonstrate a willingness to develop personal objectives via regular appraisals with an academic mentor
Skills, Knowledge and experience:
BSc in Physics, Engineering or related subject
Ph.D. in Optics, Physics, Engineering or related subject (either completed or submitted)
Highly skilled in both optical and mechanical design
Knowledge and experience in the construction of bespoke optical microscopy platforms (i.e. fluorescence light-sheet, confocal and multi-photon)
Flexible and collaborative
Willingness to learn new skills
Hands-on experience in biological cell and tissue imaging
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Commitment to high quality research
Ability to prioritise work
Communication with researchers in other fields
For a complete list of requirements and job duties and to apply online please visit the KCL website at :
https://jobs.kcl.ac.uk/gb/en/job/026626/Post-Doctoral-Research-Associate-in-Comprehensive-Cancer-Centre
