Research Fellow in Human Germ Cell Development

Job title:

Research Fellow in Human Germ Cell Development

Company

University of Warwick

Job description

This is a re-advertisement. Previous candidates for this role need not apply.LocationUniversity Hospital Coventry & WarwickshireDepartmentWarwick Medical School – Biomedical SciencesPosition TypeFixed TermDurationFixed-term for 3 yearsAbout the RoleFor informal queries, please email Wolfrum Gruhn (Assistant Professor) at [email protected].The laboratory of Dr. Wolfram Gruhn at the University of Warwick is inviting applications for a postdoctoral position focused on uncovering the molecular mechanisms driving human germline development.Research InterestsOur research focuses on understanding mechanisms driving the development of the human germline. Specifically, we aim to unravel transcription factor networks regulating the profound epigenetic changes that allow germ cells to acquire the potential for giving rise to a totipotent zygote.In light of the global rise in infertility, we are also investigating the potential role of environmental factors in perturbing normal germ cell development.Our work builds on our previous extensive characterization of the epigenome of human primordial germ cells (hPGCs) and different embryonic stem cell-derived embryoid and organoid models recapitulating early human germline development in vitro.Project DescriptionIn our previous research, we have extensively studied the epigenetic and transcriptional landscape of hPGCs and embryonic stem cell-derived hPGC-like cells.Building on this comprehensive dataset, this project aims to identify transcription factor networks that regulate epigenetic remodeling and germline development.We will utilize cutting-edge CRISPR tools, single-cell RNA-seq, and advanced techniques to study protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions (e.g., BioID and CUT&RUN).Bioinformatic integration of transcriptomic and transcription factor binding data with our previously generated epigenetic and ATAC-seq datasets will provide an in-depth view of transcriptional regulation in the early human germline.The insights gained will not only enhance our understanding of germline-specific epigenetic remodeling – a critical process for gamete formation and embryonic development – but also allow us to improve current in vitro models of germ cell development.This project will be primarily conducted in our newly established stem cell laboratory at the Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories (CSRL), with access to state-of-the-art microscopy and proteomics facilities at the University of Warwick’s Gibbet Hill campus.Bioinformatics support will be provided by Warwick’s Bioinformatics & Digital Health Research Technology Platform.Funding for this project is provided by a BBSRC New Investigator award.About YouKey Requirements:

• PhD (or pending results) in a relevant area of biological or biomedical sciences.
• A strong commitment to research.
• Strong collaborative nature.

The successful applicant is expected to:

• Independently design and conduct experiments investigating the roles of transcription factors and epigenetic modifications in stem cell-derived cell types.
• Perform bioinformatic analysis of Next Generation Sequencing datasets.
• Establish and maintain collaborations with relevant laboratories and research facilities to advance project objectives.
• Actively contribute to the academic environment at the University of Warwick through participation in seminars, conferences, and other scholarly activities.
• Co-supervise students working in the laboratory.
• Contribute to laboratory management to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.

This is a full-time post on a fixed-term contract of 3 years with the possibility of extension.For further information regarding the skills required for this role please see the personal specification section of the attached job description.If you are near submission or have recently submitted your PhD but have not yet had it conferred, any offers of employment will be made as Research Assistant at the top of level 5 of the . Upon receipt of evidence of the successful award of your PhD, you will be promoted to Research Fellow on the first point of level 6 of the .About the DepartmentAbout the RoleThe prospective Postdoctoral Research Fellow will play a key role in the research and organization of the Gruhn lab by actively promoting the integration of new ideas and techniques into the research, contributing to interdisciplinary collaborations, and supervising PhD and master students.This position is ideally suited for a creative, independent-thinking, and ambitious postdoctoral researcher with an interest in epigenetics and transcription regulation. While experience in stem cell culture, bioinformatic data analysis, or molecular techniques such as ATAC-seq, CUT&RUN, ChIP-seq, or single-cell RNA-seq would be advantageous for this position, a background in all these areas is not essential, as the University of Warwick offers extensive training to support skill development relevant to this project.The Gruhn lab puts a strong emphasis on providing a collaborative, integrative, academic atmosphere that allows co-workers within and beyond the group to thrive. Therefore, excellent teamwork and communication skills are essential.Research EnvironmentThe University of Warwick is a world-leading research institution, known for its boldness, imagination, and commitment to collaboration. Ranked 67th globally and 10th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2024), 92% of Warwick’s research has been assessed as ‘world-leading or internationally excellent’ (Research Excellence Framework 2021).Human reproduction research is a key focus at Warwick Medical School, where teams explore areas such as endometrium development, endometriosis, uterine function, female meiosis, maternal immune regulation, and assisted reproductive technologies, fostering ample opportunities for scientific exchange and collaboration.This position will be primarily based at the Clinical Sciences Research Laboratory (CSRL) at the University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire site. CSRL offers state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure for stem cell and organoid culture, supported by Warwick’s exceptional bioinformatics, microscopy, and animal research facilities.You will join a diverse and globally connected community committed to making a real-world impact.About the UniversityBorn in the 60s with a mindset of boldness, imagination and collaboration, the University of Warwick is a world-leading research-intensive university with the highest academic and research standards. We’re one of the world’s top universities, ranked 67th in the world and 10th in the UK*, with 92% of our research assessed to be ‘world leading or internationally excellent’**.You’ll be joining a diverse, innovative and globally connected community committed to igniting real world progress. Here at Warwick, we offer you opportunities to follow your ambitions as long as you bring the energy and determination to succeed.*QS World University Rankings 2024** Research Excellence Framework 2021To find out more about us visit ourHow to ApplyCLOSING DATE: Monday 24 February 2025 at 11.55pmTo apply, please click ‘Apply’ below and submit an application form by the closing date. Please plan for any potential delays as you will not be able to submit an application past this deadline (even if you opened the form at, say, 11.30pm).Please attach a CV and cover letter.

• Your CV should include your most recent employment experience, any other relevant experience, and education history.
• Your cover letter must detail how you meet each of the essential criteria found in the Job Description document below (desirable criteria too, where possible).

Please see for guidance on writing a cover letter. We highly recommend using individual criteria as headers and giving examples below, though you are free to format the letter as you wish.To streamline our hiring processes, we can only accept applications via our official website, .Interview Date: TBCStart Date: ASAPWhat we OfferWe will provide you with a great range of benefits, which include an attractive pension scheme, 30 days holiday plus Christmas closure, excellent learning and development opportunities, and savings on a wide range of products and services. We offer a generous maternity/paternity/adoption/parental leave policy, and onsite childcare facilities.We recognise the importance of a healthy work/life balance and offer you access to flexible working, for more information click .We are proud to say that we are a .If you are considering relocating to the UK, read our to find out more about what Warwick has to offer and what might be involved in the process.Our Commitment to InclusionWarwick is committed to building an organisation of mutual respect and dignity, promoting a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive working and learning environment. We recognise that everyone is different in a variety of visible and non-visible ways, and that those differences are to be recognised, respected, and valued. Where possible, we go beyond legislation to provide a place where everyone can thrive, supporting all staff to achieve their full potential. We aspire to remove economic, social, and cultural barriers that may otherwise prevent people from succeeding.We therefore welcome and encourage applications from all communities regardless of culture, background, age, disability, sex/gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion/belief, or sexual or romantic orientation. To find out more about our social inclusion work at Warwick visit our webpages .The University currently holds a , and a . The University of Warwick is also one of the six founder institutions of the .Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS)The University of Warwick is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those we work with.In line with the DBS Code of Practice, the successful candidates for any roles involving regulated activity, will be subject to a DBS check at the appropriate level. The University will take all necessary measures to ensure that any individual subject to a barring order does not undertake any work with the barred group specified (i.e. children and/or adults).We expect all employees, volunteers, and partners to share our commitment to safeguarding.Rehabilitation of Ex-OffendersThe University undertakes not to discriminate against anyone who makes a disclosure relating to a conviction. The information disclosed at application stage is only visible to the central DBS team (i.e. not recruiting managers) to ensure there is no bias during the shortlisting process.Job Description

Expected salary

Location

Coventry

Job date

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 01:17:41 GMT

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