Research Assistant Manchester, England
Job description
BACKGROUND
Project title: Defining the effects of preventive tamoxifen on the high-risk breast microenvironment
This project is funded by Prevent Breast Cancer and will be undertaken with the Manchester Breast Centre and Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Biology.
Mammographic density (MD) the second largest independent risk factor for developing breast cancer. Regions of high MD are characterised by increased periductal collagen organisation, suggesting that altered extracellular matrix (ECM) in the breast is a key factor contributing to increased cancer risk. Tamoxifen (TAM) can reduce breast cancer incidence in high-risk women, and women with high MD that show a greater than 10% reduction in density go on to have significantly reduced cancer risk. However, around half of women on preventative TAM do not show a decrease in cancer risk. Therefore, there is a need to find markers that identify those women at high risk of cancer that will benefit from preventive tamoxifen therapy, as well as understand why other women do not respond. We have developed an analysis pipeline using laser capture microdissection coupled with mass spectrometry (LCM-MS) and multiplexed imaging cytometry to interrogate breast tissue composition from biopsies. We will apply this pipeline to vacuum assisted biopsy (VAB) samples from prevention trials run in Manchester. These methods provide spatial analysis of breast tissue composition. LCM-MS will provide unbiased analysis, and the data obtained will be used to compile a bespoke antibody panel for imaging cytometry. The information obtained can then be correlated to breast imaging data. Within this pilot we will: 1) define differences in tissue composition between high and low MD breasts; 2) identify molecular changes following preventive Tamoxifen treatment.
This project will underpin a larger project to correlate changes in tissue composition with breast imaging data to allow us to better identify those women that will respond to preventive tamoxifen and identify the differences in women that do not. The key role of this job is to perform LCM-MS and imaging cytometry on breast biopsies. This will involve tissue sectioning, sample preparation, antibody staining and data acquisition. You will be working as part of a team including PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, and will be expected to train others as well as participate in joint meetings, present data, and contribute to preparation of publications.
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here
Blended working arrangements may be considered
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Dr. Andrew Gilmore
Email: [email protected]
General enquiries:
Email: [email protected]
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
