Research Assistant

RSCI Royal College of Surgeons; Dublin; On-site; EUR 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

RCSI Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland is seeking a Research Assistant to join Prof David C. Henshall's laboratory.

The role focuses on supporting in vivo studies of gene therapies in preclinical mouse models and includes animal husbandry, colony management, drug treatments, behavioural assays, genotyping and histological/molecular studies. The team investigates mechanisms and new treatments for epilepsy within the FutureNeuro Research Centre, offering world-class facilities and collaborative

Qualifications

• A BSc or MSc in neuroscience or a relevant discipline.
• Completed LAST Ireland training courses.
• Familiar with regulatory aspects related to use of animals in research.
• Familiarity with laboratory Health and Safety protocols and procedures.
• Strong organisation and project management skills to ensure tasks are delivered on time and within agreed parameters.
• Proficient IT skills.
• Strong communication skills with a proven ability to liaise with various stakeholders across a number of different departments.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with animal-based activities, including management of mouse colonies and genotyping.
• Support the design and conduct of in vivo research on epilepsy mechanisms and treatment in animal models.
• Analyse data and maintain datasets.
• Prepare and present reports.

Skills

Lab techniques

Communication skills

Organisation & project management

Neuroscience background

Education

BSc or MSc in neuroscience or relevant

Tools

Genotyping

Molecular biology

Job description

Job Title

Research Assistant

Department

Physiology & Medical Physics

Reporting to

Prof David Henshall

Location

RCSI main campus at 123 St Stephen Green and York Street Research Institute, Dublin, Ireland

Contract / Duration

Specified Purpose Contract, full time for up 12 months with the potential to extend

Remuneration

Research Assistant Scale, Point 1-3 dependent on experience

Closing Date

9:00am on Tuesday 15th of September

Summary of Post

A Research Assistant position is available in the laboratory of Prof David C Henshall at the RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Ireland. We are seeking a self-motivated, creative and collaborative team member with a recent Bachelor's or Master's degree in neuroscience or a relevant discipline. The successful candidate will join a team researching mechanisms and advanced new treatments for epilepsy. The main role is to support in vivo studies of the effects of gene therapies in preclinical mouse models. This includes animal husbandry, colony management, drug treatments, behavioural assays, genotyping and histological and molecular studies. The research is funded through a grant from Science Foundation Ireland and industry partners and is based in the FutureNeuro Research Centre, a multi-disciplinary and inter-institutional research programme, providing access to world-class facilities and collaborative research teams.

Main duties of the post

• Assisting with animal-based activities, specifically:
• Management of wildtype and genetically-altered mouse colonies, genotyping, maintenance checks, minor surgical procedures, and light husbandry duties.
• Support the design and conduct of in vivo research on mechanisms and treatment of epilepsy and co-morbidities in the animal models of epilepsy.
• Analysis of data and maintenance of datasets.
• Preparation and presentation of reports.
• Carrying out animal work in compliance with HPRA, EPA and RCSI Ethics policies and regulations.
• Assisting in the coordination of security and maintenance arrangements for the animal research facilities.
• Supporting carrying out necessary risk assessments.
• Liaising with relevant personnel (MRTF, BRF, Physiology Dept).
• At times, be required to work flexible hours in line with research needs.

Qualifications

• A BSc or MSc qualification in a relevant discipline

Knowledge & Experience

• Completed relevant LAST Ireland training courses
• General lab experience; molecular biology and/or neuroscience research area would be an advantage.
• Familiar with regulatory aspects related to use of animals in research.
• Familiarity with laboratory Health and Safety protocols and procedures.
• Strong organisation and project management skills to ensure tasks are delivered on time and within agreed parameters.
• Proficient IT skills.
• Strong communication skills with a proven ability to liaise with various stakeholders across a number of different departments.

Additional info

We are all too aware that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can sometimes stop fantastic candidates putting themselves forward.

Our Culture

At RCSI, people are at the heart of everything we do. Watch our short video to discover our culture, values, and shared commitment to making a meaningful impact on health worldwide. RCSI: Ensemble - Body Meets Mind.

Informal Enquiries

Informal Enquiries can be directed to Prof David C Henshall:

Garda vetting and occupational health review may be required for this role, depending on the nature of the duties and responsibilities. Further information will be provided during the recruitment process. In accordance with the terms and conditions of employment at RCSI, the contractual retirement age for this role is 66 years.

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