Post-doc positions - Chromatin and transcription regulation

Post-doctoral Research Associate positions are available to join Professor Julie Ahringer’s laboratory to study the regulation of chromatin in development and gene expression using the C.elegans model system. Experimental and computational positions are available.

Our research programme uses the powerful model organism C.elegans for uncovering general principles of eukaryotic chromatin regulation, focusing on transcription regulation and genome organisation in a developmental context. Projects include investigating mechanisms of enhancer function, the formation and regulation of chromatin domains, and chromatin regulation in developmental transitions. Our laboratory addresses these questions using a combination of wet-lab and computational approaches, applying high-throughput sequencing and directed methods to analyse gene expression and epigenetic state and function in wild-type and mutant animals and tissues (seehttp://www.gurdon.cam.ac.uk/research/ahringer for more information).

Successful candidates will be highly motivated and organised individuals with a PhD in a relevant area, excellent verbal and written communication skills as evidenced by publications in internationally recognized peer-reviewed journals, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Expertise in a broad range of molecular biology techniques or in bioinformatics/computational analyses is essential. Previous experience in investigating transcription, epigenetic control of gene expression, and/or computational analyses is desirable.

The Gurdon Institute is located in the heart of the city of Cambridge, and is part of the University’s School of Biological Sciences. It is a world-renowned centre in developmental and cellular biology and cancer research. Supported by funding from the Wellcome Trust and Cancer Research UK, it benefits from state-of-the-art facilities including bioinformatics, media preparation and animal husbandry. It provides the best atmosphere for research and a vibrant environment that facilitates the interactions and collaborations between scientists within the Centre and within Cambridge. Its postdoc association not only encourages scientific and social interactions but also provides career development and teaching opportunities.

Limited funding: The funds for this post are available until 30 November 2018 in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please visit: http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/7778. This will take you to the role on the University’s Job Opportunities pages. There you will need to click on the ‘Apply online’ button and register an account with the University’s Web Recruitment System (if you have not already) and log in before completing the online application form.

Applications should include a CV and a covering letter explaining your interest in this post. Informal inquiries can be addressed to Julie Ahringer at (j.ahringer@gurdon.cam.ac.uk). Please quote reference PR06786 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. Interviews will take place during the week commencing 14th September 2015.

The University values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity. Benefits include generous maternity/paternity leave, flexible working, funds for returning carers and other family-friendly schemes. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.