Research Associate in Modelling Friedreich's ataxia using iPSC-derived neurons

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We are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious Research Associate to join the laboratories of Dr Matt Livesey, Prof Dame Pam Shaw and Profs Mead, Hautbergue and Mortiboys at the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), supporting research into the cellular mechanisms underlying Friedreich's ataxia (FA). SITraN is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for research into neurodegenerative diseases and therapeutic development.

Funded to support an FA research programme, the successful candidate will play a key role in developing and delivering research investigating disease mechanisms and the effects of novel therapeutic compounds using human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neuronal models. The post holder will be responsible for planning and undertaking experimental studies, generating, analysing and interpreting data, and contributing to the development of new approaches to understand FA pathophysiology and therapeutic responses.

The role will primarily involve the generation, characterisation and experimental use of human iPSC-derived neuronal models. Experimental approaches will include iPSC culture and differentiation, immunocytochemistry, fluorescence microscopy, whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, molecular biology and RNA sequencing. The post holder will develop and optimise protocols, troubleshoot technical challenges and integrate cellular, electrophysiological and molecular datasets.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team while demonstrating independence in planning and delivering their research. They will contribute to publications, presentations, research reports and future funding applications, and may provide guidance to students and less experienced researchers.

We are seeking a scientist with a PhD and experience in neuroscience, neurobiology, molecular biology, cell biology or a related discipline. Experience of human iPSC models, neuronal differentiation and/or relevant experimental techniques would be advantageous.

All candidates are encouraged to contact Matt Livesey for an informal chat prior to applying.

• Take responsibility for planning, conducting and interpreting a programme of experimental research investigating the cellular mechanisms underlying Friedreich's ataxia and the effects of potential therapeutic compounds.
• Design and undertake experiments using human iPSC-derived neuronal models, including the maintenance, expansion and differentiation of iPSC cultures into relevant neuronal cell types.
• Develop, optimise and validate experimental protocols and methodologies to address specific research questions, identifying and resolving technical challenges where appropriate.
• Apply a range of experimental approaches, which may include immunocytochemistry, fluorescence microscopy, molecular biology, RNA extraction and analysis, whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology and RNA sequencing.
• Undertake quantitative analysis and interpretation of experimental datasets, integrating cellular, electrophysiological and molecular findings to address research hypotheses.
• M…