Job description
Job description
We are looking for a skilled research assistant with a molecular biological background to join the brand new MND Institute at King’s College London. We are investigating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-frontotemporal dementia (ALS-FTD). You will be using CRISPR to gene edit human stem cells to model ALS-FTD in vitro. This is part of a large UK-wide initiative to accelerate translation to therapies for devastating neurodegenerative diseases. This work will entail the use of directed differentiation using genetic cassettes to facilitate isogenic studies of derived neurons and microglia.
The candidate will be working in a newly equipped cell culture facility using nucleofection to generate novel CRISPR iPSC lines. Derived neurons and microglia will undergo high-content cellular imaging (Opera Phenix), RNASeq and a variety of other phenotyping approaches. There will be opportunities to learn neuronal-microglial co-culture techniques.
You must have molecular biological knowledge and experience working in the neuroscience field. CRISPR experience is essential.
This post will be offered on a fixed-term contract to 31st January 2025
This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent
Key responsibilities
- Maintaining human iPSCs, neurons and microglia
- Site directed mutagenesis
- RNA extraction, qPCR
- Brain histology
- Manuscript writing and figure preparation
- Presenting at regular lab meetings
The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.
Skills, knowledge, and experience
Essential criteria
1. Degree in biological sciences
2. Neuroscience knowledge
3. Practical experience with CRISPR
4. Practical experience with in vitro and/or in vivo animal studies
5. Excellent oral and written communication skills
6. Able to work to strict deadlines
7. Able to interact and work well within a team
Desirable criteria
1. iPSC experience
Further information
Interviews will be held in April 2023 with a start date in May