Research Fellow, Section of Opthalmology & Neuroscience

This post is fixed term for 1 year and is available from 1st February 2017 to 31st January 2018

Applications are invited for a Research Fellow post based within the Leeds Vision Research Group (VRG) of Prof Chris Inglehearn, Dr Manir Ali, Mr Martin McKibbin and Dr Carmel Toomes, studying the genetics/molecular biology of inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs).  IRDs are a heterogeneous group of conditions that lead to loss or dysfunction of photoreceptor cells. The post is funded by a grant awarded jointly by the UK charities Retinitis Pigmentosa Fighting Blindness (RPFB) and Fight For Sight (FFS). Its aim is to support genetic screens, analysis and interpretation of findings in the search for novel IRD genes and proteins, in collaboration with researchers in three other centres; Manchester University and Manchester Royal Eye Hospital; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and Moorfields Eye Hospital, London; and the University of Oxford and Oxford Eye Hospital. 

You will be responsible for leading the research to map and identify human gene variants that underlie IRDs. You will prioritise cases and families for pre-screening, use whole exome (WES), whole genome (WGS) or transcriptome (RNAseq) sequencing to identify potential causative variants, then apply bioinformatics filtering to determine the cause(s) of the IRD. You will deal directly with colleagues from other centres in the consortium, facilitating exchange of data. Where appropriate, you will also carry out expression analysis and functional testing using cell and protein-based approaches and/or studying model organisms to substantiate findings.

The successful applicant will require a PhD in a relevant biomedical subject, a background in human molecular genetics and an interest in medical genetics. They will have extensive practical and theoretical knowledge of, and laboratory experience in, modern human molecular genetics techniques, including next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics. A good working knowledge of cell and molecular biology techniques is also essential. In addition candidates must be enthusiastic and highly motivated and must have the ability to manage their time effectively and work under pressure, exhibiting effective interpersonal, communication, and team-working skills.

The University of Leeds is committed to providing equal opportunities for all and offers a range of family friendly policies (http://hr.leeds.ac.uk/homepage/4/policies). The University is a charter member of Athena SWAN and holds the Silver award. The School of Medicine gained the Silver award in 2016.  We are committed to being an inclusive medical school that values all staff, and we are happy to consider job share applications and requests for flexible working arrangements from our employees.

Informal enquiries regarding the post should be directed to Prof. Chris Inglehearn email:  c.inglehearn@leeds.ac.uk , tel +44 (0)113 343 8646

If you have any specific enquiries about your online application please contact Sharon Collins, email: s.collins@leeds.ac.uk or Rosemary Sannaee, email: r.sannaee@leeds.ac.uk