The Department of Life Sciences was the top ranked university department in the UK for research intensity in Biological Sciences in REF2014 (Times Higher Education), scoring 100% on our environment.
We are seeking to appoint a Research Associate to join a world-leading and dynamic research team at the Department of Life Sciences at Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus. The successful candidate will contribute to a joint research effort by the laboratories of Professor Andrea Crisanti at Imperial College and Professor Keith Joung at the Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, USA). The post holder will be based in London but the role will involve high degree of exchange and continuous communication with the collaborators in Boston.
The Crisanti lab has pioneered the genetic transformation of the human malaria mosquito and it is now focused on projects aimed at creating gene drive systems based on the use of DNA endonucleases with the ultimate goal of malaria control by decreasing the reproductive potential of mosquito populations. The Joung lab has established itself as one of the world leader in genome editing technologies. The post holder will work in the intersection between the two labs, with the aim of improving the specificity and efficacy of CRISPR/Cas9 gene drive technology aimed at control of mosquito vectors of malaria. The project will be involved in developing novel technologies to improve the specificity of CRISPR/Cas9 by detection and minimisation of off-target effects in mosquitoes.
The successful candidate must have a PhD (or equivalent) in Biological Sciences or a related subject with a strong background in molecular, cell biology and genetics as well as a proven track record of high impact publications. Experience in gene editing and familiarity with molecular approaches to population control of mosquito vectors of diseases is essential. You must have knowledge of CRISPR-base mutagenesis and proven ability with DNA cloning. Experience with the use of DNA analysis software (Vector NTI, Geneious, Blenching or similar) is also essential. Previous experience of working with mosquitoes is not essential but is desirable. The candidate is expected to develop an interest in mosquito genetics and biology.
The candidate must be a highly motivated, innovative and creative individual with demonstrable ability to develop and apply new concepts, and a creative approach to problem solving. The ideal candidate will have a collaborative and open-minded nature as required by the nature of the project. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and proven ability to write clearly and succinctly for high profile publications are also essential.
This is a full-time, fixed-term position available for up to 24 months, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funding.
Any candidate who has not been yet been awarded their PhD, will be appointed as a Research Assistant within the salary range £31,740 - £33,370 per annum.
For informal enquiries please contact Professor Andrea Crisanti (via
[email protected]) and Dr Alekos Simoni (
[email protected])
Our preferred method of application is online via our website
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/employment (please select "Job Search" then enter the job title or vacancy reference number NS 2017 063 PB including spaces into "Keywords"). Please complete and upload an application form as directed.
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