Research Assistant in Single Cell Genomics (Imperial)

British Neuroscience Association (BNA); Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 43,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute is seeking a highly motivated scientist to develop innovative methods for single cell genomics. This role involves pushing the limits of microfluidic technology and working on groundbreaking research relevant to neurodegenerative diseases. Successful candidates will have a strong background in molecular biology and teamwork skills, contributing to critical advancements in understanding Alzheimer's disease.

Qualifications

• Experience in developing novel methods for single cell genomics.
• General molecular biology and cellular genomics knowledge essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and implement protocols for single cell DNA profiling.
• Work on customisable microfluidic platforms.
• Train in new methods relevant to Alzheimer's disease research.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cellular genomics

Organised approach

Collaboration

Tools

Microfluidic platforms

Job description

Vacancy Reference Number MED05199 Closing Date 2 Jul 2025 Salary £43,003 - £46,297 per annum Address UK Dementia Research Institute, White City Campus - Hybrid Duration Full time - Fixed term

Dementia is the biggest health challenge of our century.

To date there is no way to prevent it or even slow its progression, and there is an urgent need to fill the knowledge gap in our basic understanding of the diseases that cause it.

The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is the biggest UK initiative driving forward research to fill this gap.

The UK DRI at Imperial brings together researchers from diverse backgrounds with fresh perspectives, drawing on the university’s unique strengths, resources and focus on science, engineering, medicine and business. The team recognises that the challenges of dementia demand new concepts, new approaches and a diverse range of new research tools and directions. Their holistic approach views the ageing brain in the context of the ageing body, not in isolation.

What You Would Be Doing

We are developing new methods for profiling the binding of transcription factors to DNA. We need these methods to work at single cell resolution which is requiring us to push the limits of existing microfluidics capabilities. You will be responsible for developing, testing and implementing novel protocols towards this goal. The Neurogenomics Lab is exploiting these technologies to enable genome function to be understood in disease relevant cell types. This is being done with a view towards commercialisation so would suit a highly motivated tech minded scientist with an engineering approach to molecular biology.

Working in state-of-the-art laboratories on Imperial’s newest campus for innovation in the heart of the west London tech corridor, the research group of Dr Nathan Skene in the UK DRI at Imperial seeks to identify regulatory mechanisms which cause neurodegenerative disorders, along with the cell types in which they act, and determine whether inhibition or activation of the pathway is associated with increased disease risk. Dr Skene’s research focuses on answering simple questions about brain diseases, through the analysis of epigenomic and genetic datasets. A major question of our group is identifying which cell types carry the most genetic load for brain disorders, by linking GWAS data to epigenomic data obtained using single cell methods. This research area is evolving rapidly. You will be given opportunities to train in new methods, develop new competencies relevant to the specific aims set and address major questions of importance for Alzheimer’s disease and related neurodegenerative conditions.

What We Are Looking For

• Development of novel methods for single cell genomics, using customisable microfluidic platforms
• Experience with general molecular biology and cellular genomics methods
• Work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary research team
• Demonstrate an aptitude for an organised, methodical approach to your work
  
  

How to apply: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/jobs/search-jobs/description/index.php?jobId=24355

Contact Details

If you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr Nathan Skene [e-mail]