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We are seeking a motivated and talented cell biologist to support the laboratory work on the recruitment and experimental phases of the study for a translational research project funded by the NIHR-BRC (Cardiovascular Theme).

The research project will study the mechanisms regulating blood vessel dysfunction in patients with chronic inflammatory and haematological disorders. This will be achieved by investigating the phenotype and function of primary endothelial progenitor cells called ECFC, isolated from blood of patients and healthy donors. Additionally, this project will establish a biobank of donor tissue to support ongoing work in the Department.

Endothelial Colony Forming Cells (ECFC) are circulating progenitors of endothelial cells which can be isolated from peripheral blood, thereby providing access to the blood vessel endothelium in a non-invasive way. Our groups have published several studies on ECFC from patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Paschalaki et al, Stem Cells 2013) and the haematological disease von Willebrand Disease (VWD) (Starke et al, Blood 2011 and 2013); we have also published a review article on the topic (Paschalaki and Randi, Frontiers 2018). In this project we will extend our studies on patients with haematological disease (VWD, Glantzman Thrombasthenia), COPD, cardiovascular and thrombotic diseases and patients with long COVID. To characterise the endothelial dysfunction, a variety of functional and molecular methods will be employed, including RT-qPCR for molecular profiling, cell proliferation, angiogenesis, cell adhesion and migration, immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy.
You will join a collaborative team of research scientists within the National Heart and Lung Institute. This project builds upon the section’s extensive experience in endothelial biology and vascular dysfunction in disease.

Patient recruitment to the study is on-going and involves patients from Royal London Hospital, the Royal Brompton Hospital, St Mary’s Hospital and Hammersmith Hospital. Recruitment is performed by our clinicians.

Further details of the work carried out by the Vascular Sciences Section can be found here: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/nhli/research/cardiovascular/vascular-science/

Duties and responsibilities

You will be responsible for:

• Executing experiments with endothelial colony forming cells (ECFC) isolated from patients and healthy control volunteers.
• Processing patient and control blood samples, culturing and maintaining ECFC and performing key experiments related to the project
• Training other lab members and collaborators in the isolation and culture of ECFC
• Contributing to general laboratory responsibilities such as ordering, equipment maintenance, and generally assist in the smooth running of the Group/Unit’s laboratories and facilities
• Recording and maintaining data and information as relevant and appropriate, including patient databases.
• Maintaining highly organised and accurate record of patient research samples and experimental work.
• Helping with the smooth running of the Group/Unit’s laboratories and facilities with other scientists, clinicians, technicians and students within the laboratories

Essential requirements

• BSc Degree in Biological Sciences, or related field, or equivalent vocational qualification required.


• Previous experience in primary cell culture, basic cellular and molecular techniques required.


• Experience in developing and/or carrying out cell-based assays

Further information

This post is full-time and fixed term for 12 months, based at the Hammersmith Campus, London.

The College is currently trialling a Work Location Framework until early 2023. Hybrid working may be considered for this role and the role holder may be expected to work 60% or more of their time onsite, with 40% the minimum time spent onsite. The opportunity for hybrid working will be discussed at interview.

Should you require any further details on the role please contact: Prof. Anna M. Randi [email protected] or Dr. Koralia Paschalaki [email protected]

For technical issues when applying online please email [email protected]

Documents

• Research Technician JD.pdf