Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Epigenetics)
Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Epigenetics)
Babraham Institute
Cambridge, United Kingdom
We have an exciting opportunity for a motivated and collaborative scientist working at the interface of metabolism and epigenetics. This project will investigate novel metabolic factors driving diabetic cardiomyopathy, and test targeted dietary interventions for therapeutic efficacy. This post forms one half of a collaborative project between the Trefely lab at Babraham Institute (BI), and the Swietach and Heather labs at Oxford University. The BI based post holder will lead metabolomic and epigenomic analyses on mouse tissue samples provided by the Oxford-based researcher and pursue mechanistic experiments in cultured human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived cardiomyocytes. The animal models of disease, cardiac measurements, and tissue collection will be the remit of the already required Oxford-based researcher, but training and exchange of knowledge with the BI-based scientist will be encouraged. The project will advance our understanding of the metabolic-epigenetic interface in diabetic cardiomyopathy, using novel insights provided by a genetic mouse model of an inborn error in metabolism - propionyl CoA carboxylase deficiency. This post offers an opportunity for a talented scientist to hone expertise in metabolomics and epigenomics whilst extending their scope and impact across disciplines through collaboration. Although the work programme is on cardiac tissue, prior experience in cardiovascular research is not essential and we welcome scientifically diverse candidates keen on expanding their research portfolio.
The Trefely lab is focussed on the links between diet-derived metabolites and epigenetic regulation. We study how compartmentalisation of metabolic pathways affects the supply of metabolites within the nucleus and their functions in epigenetic modifications. This project will synergize cutting-edge liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) based methods for metabolomic analysis including subcellular analyses developed in the Trefely lab with state-of-the-art techniques for iPSC-derived cardiomyocyte culture (supported by the Heather lab) and epigenomics profiling. The candidate will take advantage of ready access to top tier facilities and resources available at the Babraham Institute.
The ideal candidate must have a PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry or similar field, with experience in analysis of complex data sets such as metabolomic, sequencing or proteomics. Collaboration is an essential part of the project and the candidate must demonstrate strong communication skills, and be adaptable to work flexibly and independently to develop the project. The candidate will be trained in specialised metabolic analyses employing liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) in the Trefely lab but prior experience in metabolomic analysis is an advantage. Experience in stem cell culture and metabolic research is highly desirable for this post since a considerable part of this project will involve the development of iPSC culture models with metabolic perturbations. The role will require independent problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, and an eye for detail.
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