Post Date : 23-Jul-2024 Close Date : 13-Aug-2024
Job Title: Postdoctoral fellow
School: School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences
Reporting to: Prof. Helena Kelly
Location: York House, York St. St Stephen's Green Dublin 2 Ireland
Contract/Duration: Full time, specified purpose contract for 24 months
Remuneration: Up to €45,332 (point 3 on SFI post-doctoral researcher
salary scale)
Closing Date: Tuesday August 13th 2024
Background:
We are seeking an enthusiastic, creative, and experienced Postdoctoral
Researcher to join a translational research project, focused on the
development of a novel delivery platform to reduce radiation resistance in
hypoxic tumours. This project is based on technology developed in the lab of
the PI, Prof. Helena Kelly, which is being developed in partnership with an
industry collaborator under an Enterprise Ireland Innovation Partnership
Programme. The technology is a sustained release nano-oxygen delivery system
for loco-regional delivery. This project seeks to optimise the initial
platform that has been developed, develop alternative systems and also
undertake further evaluation of its efficacy in cancer applications.
Technical aspects of this project will include formulation development,
optimisation and physicochemical characterization, in vitro and in vivo
studies. The role will require you to work closely in collaboration with our
industry partner, our university partners and CROs who will be undertaking
some of our efficacy testing. Additionally, as a project with a strongly
translational focus, the candidate will also be involved in delivery of
commercial aspects of the project, including supporting regulatory and
procurement activities, undertaking market analysis and engaging with Key
Opinion Leaders (KOL's) and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in the field.
Specifically, the duties of the post are:
Pharmaceutical formulation and optimisation studies, and material
characterisation of the technology.
In vitro evaluation of the technology across a range of hypoxia related
parameters
In vivo evaluation of the technology in murine xenograft studies including
the use of IVIS imaging, CT, histology and IHC evaluation related to
hypoxia
CMC activities including process development, scale up, packaging,
sterility impact studies and stability studies.
Preparation of documentation including compilation of reports and
technical dossiers to support reporting requirement, procurement
activities and process development activities
Project and team management: Coordination of technical and commercial
deliverables under supervision and collaboration with other team members
both internally and 3rd party, to align project activities.
Routine work: Data analysis, data presentation, management of lab
resources with team, other reporting and desk work as requested by
supervisor.
Person specification - (Essential):
PhD degree in a nano related field of pharmaceutics/formulation science,
materials science, drug delivery, chemical/biomedical engineering, or a
related field
Expertise in nanoparticles/nanomaterials preparation and characterization.
Expertise with in vitro evaluation of nanoparticulate systems including
cell culture (primary and cell line), imaging, flow cytometry,
bioanalytical assays e.g. ELISA, PCR, Western blot, analytical chemistry
e.g. HPLC, GC
Experience with in vivo murine studies – ethics, animal management and
handling
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with evidence of strong
scientific writing through publications
Evidence of strong collaborative skills and ability to work effectively
with external stakeholders
Proven management skills and ability to plan, coach and motivate a
research team
Attention to detail, thoroughness in work practices, and be able to
demonstrate outstanding record keeping.
Ability to work to deadlines and operate with flexibility in a busy and
productive lab
Knowledge & Experience – ( Essential):
Experience in 3D models for material evaluation
Experience in the field of oxygen delivery systems e.g. PFCs or peroxides
Experience with in vivo imaging techniques
Experience in the field of radiotherapy research
Experience/interest in minimally invasive medical devices and/or loco-
regional/site-specific delivery systems
Interest in translational research/commercialization and process
development
We are all too aware that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can
sometimes stop fantastic candidates putting themselves forward, so please do
submit an application — we'd love to hear from you.
Application Process
Please apply online through the RCSI careers portal before the closing date
with your CV and cover letter.
Informal Enquiries can be directed to Helena Kelly: [email protected]
Please note we do not accept CVs by email.
Employee Benefits
RCSI make sure you have the resources you need to thrive by offering a wide
range of benefits in areas including time away, finance, community, health,
and well-being and insuring your financial future. Below are some additional
benefits available to you as an RCSI employee:
Minimum of 20 days annual leave, plus an additional 6.5 Privilege days
Flexible/hybrid working options for colleagues across many roles
Additional leave options incl. paid maternity leave, paternity/parental
leave, study leave
7% Employer pension contribution
Onsite gym €10 per/mth incl. classes and PT sessions
Childcare support 20% discount at Giraffe
Free eye test and annual flu vaccination
TaxSaver commuter tickets and Bike to Work schemes
A site sustainability team focusing on the environmental initiatives;
Green Campus Initiative '
Competitively priced café and restaurant
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion forums, and network groups
Employee assistance programme with Spectrum Life
Learning and Development training programmes incl. LinkedIn Learning for
career progression
Discounted services incl. GP visits, 10% off dental, staff parking, mobile
tariffs, Group Scheme discount on numerous brands
Sports and social club incl. yoga, Pilates, fitness classes, Zumba,
running club, social evenings, Summer BBQ
Ticket Draws for events including; Rugby, Taste of Dublin, Dublin Horse
Show, theatre, music & comedy events
