Research Fellow

To join the vascular stem cell biology research team within the Centre for Experimental Medicine. The project will employ a broad
range of cell and molecular biological approaches in in vitro and in vivo model systems to study the molecular basis of vascualr stem
cell dysfunciton in diabetes and pathogenic mechanisms linked to the development diabetic microvascular disease. There will also be
a focus on developing a cell-based therapy using highly-defined populations of stromal stem cells and endothelial progenitor cells.

MAJOR DUTIES:
To determine the cellular and molecular nature of stem cell subtypes from human and animal bone marrow and blood sources.
To also mechanistically examine pericyte progenitor function and endothelial progenitor cell function within a range of in vitro
and in vivo model systems linked to diabetic microvasculopathy using sophisticated imaging technology, molecular pathology
and cell biology approaches.
To characterise vascualr stem cell subsets and investigate how they interact with the tissue microvasculature.
To assess the impact of stem cell subsets on diabetes-related tissue ischaemia.
To investigate the potential for stem cell and pericyte progenitor therapy to enhance retinal vascular repair in the context of
diabetic retinopathy.
To present at national and international research meetings and prepare manuscripts for submission to major international
journals.
Present regular progress reports on research to members of the local research group and also travel to meet with national and
international collaborative partners to disseminate and discuss research findings.
Prepare, often in consultation with supervisor, material for publication in national and international journals and presentations at
international conferences.
Assist grant holders in the preparation of scientific manuscripts, funding proposals and applications to external bodies.
Carry out routine administrative tasks associated with the research project/s to ensure that project/s are completed on time and
within budget. These might include organisation of project meetings and documentation, financial control, risk assessment of
research activities. Carry out occasional undergraduate supervision, demonstrating or lecturing duties within the postholder’s area of expertise and under the direct guidance of a member of academic staff. 1 To keep up-to-date with the scientific literature related to the area (academic papers, journals and textbooks) and use this to inform experimental appraoches and study design. Planning and Organising:

Plan for practical and specific aspects of the research programme.
Contribute to planning a technician’s day-to-day activity within framework of the agreed research programme.
Plan up to a year in advance to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for
conferences.
Coordinate and liaise with other members of the research group over work progress. Resource Management Responsibilities:

Routine ordering of research consumables.
Provision of guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research.
Ensure research resources are used in an effective and efficient manner.

Internal and External Relationships:
Liaise on a regular basis with supervisor and other members of the research team.
Build internal contacts and participate in internal networks for the exchange of information and to form relationships for future
collaboration.
Join external networks to share information and ideas.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:

Have or about to obtain a PhD in molecular biology, cell biology, or a related area of biomedicine.
At least 3-years recent, hands-on, experience that will demonstrate relevant practical and laboratory skills that are relevant for
this project, including experience in molecular cell biology using appropriate model systems.
Evidence of practical skills in molecular cell biology techniques such as manipulation of gene expression, transfections,
infections, gene silencing, quantitative PCR, cloning, flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry.
Practical knowledge of vascular biology, stem cell biology, cell differentiation or related areas of biomedicine.
Computing skills especially software commonly used in biomedical research (for example imaging, flow cytometry, real-time
PCR software).
Experience in use of complex in vivo and or in vitro model systems (for example models of angiogenesis, tissue ischaemia etc).
Evidence of a key role in publication in internationally recognised, high-quality peer reviewed journals. This list should be current and commensurate with stage of career and experience.
Sufficient breadth and depth of specialist knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within
established research programmes.
Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
Ability to build contacts and participate in internal and external networks, commensurate with experience.
1 Demonstrable intellectual ability and awareness of the scientific literature pertaining to area of interest.
1 Ability to assess and organise resources.
1 Ability to work independently within the context of a research team.
1 Must demonstrate a clear interest in the research encompassed by this position and show commitment to long term goals in this area. 1 Must be prepared to work outside normal office hours.
1 Must be willing to travel to and work for extended periods of time (up to 1-2months) with collaborative partners.
1 Willing to attend and present at national and international meetings.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA:
PhD research project to be in the area of vascular biology or diabetic complications (preferably retinopathy).
Practical knowledge of stem cell biology and/or vascular biology.
Experience with diabetic in vivo models.
Experience in mammalian cell culture.
Investigation of clinical material and in vitro / in vivo model systems.
Handling of blood-derived cells, their isolation and characterisation and awareness of possible HTA implications.
Computing skills especially software commonly used in biomedical research (for example imaging and flow cytometry software).
Direct involvement in investigation of cell pathophysiology to include, imaging or electrophysiology or immunohistochemistry or
microscopical investigations during disease.
Evidence of having presented at conferences (poster and/or oral presentations).
Background or research interests which are compatible with the post.
1 Long term career goals in research.