Technical Specialist (Fixed term)

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School of Medicine, Translational Medical Sciences
Location:  University Park
Salary: 
£33,966
per annum (pro rata if applicable)
Closing Date:  Friday 12 January 2024
Reference:  MED601723

Applications are invited for the role of Technical Specialist for the GlycoWeb Project in the School of Medicine. About the project:

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are polysaccharides present on the surface of most cells and in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of all tissues that influence how cells interact with their pericellular environment. GAG activities are mediated via the binding of protein ligands (growth factors, cytokines, matrix components etc.) to motifs encoded within the GAG chains. The chains are constructed through the action of multiple enzymes which themselves are under transcriptional, metabolic, and epigenetic control. Currently, we lack a thorough understanding of how the functional activity of a GAG links to its structure and, critically, how GAG structure is controlled by cells. This prevents the harnessing of GAGs for multiple bioscience applications: it is currently impossible to predict changes in GAG motifs/activity from transcriptomic datasets, or to select which enzymes should be combined to synthesise a GAG with a specific function. We have assembled an interdisciplinary team with complementary approaches, including the use of 3D in vitro models of development (gastruloids) to provide material for coordinated analyses, creating an interconnected web of information that we will then use to generate and test hypotheses. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses linked to detailed structural and spatial analysis of GAGs will allow us to build and then refine models of how the biosynthetic machinery creates particular GAG structures, allowing us to generate and apply a novel toolbox of GAG-binding probes. Coordinating this information with defined developmental stages and responses to known GAG-dependent ligands (e.g., BMP, FGF family members etc.) will directly link structure to function. To test emergent hypotheses, we will use gene editing to target key regulatory hotspots in the 3D gastruloid models, allowing the refinement of our understanding of the critical factors controlling GAG structure and function and how this maps onto molecular and biological function. 

The Technical Specialist role is required to provide the appropriate support and expertise for the project to succeed. You will work as part of a team of researchers on the GlycoWeb Project sharing your expertise in either cell culture, 3D models or glycosaminoglycan analysis as well as guidance on good working practices, health and safety and reporting. 

You will be a dynamic, team-focused and effective individual, with the ability to risk assess and prioritise competing demands together with the ability to implement recommendations. 

This is a full time role (36.25 hours) and is fixed term until 31/12/2028. Job share arrangements may be considered.

Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof Cathy Merry, email [email protected]. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

Further details:

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