Post Date : 15-Oct-2024 Close Date : 30-Oct-2024
Job Title: Postdoctoral Researcher (in vivo neuroscience)
Location: FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in
Ireland, 123 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2.
Reporting to: Dr. Omar Mamad and Prof David Henshall, Director,
FutureNeuro Research Centre
Tenure: Specified Purpose Contract for up to 24 months initially
Salary: Aligned with the IUA Postdoctoral Researcher salary scale, subject
to prior experience
Objective of this post: The Mamad lab at RCSI studies the mechanisms and
treatment of CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD). The specific objective of this
post is to investigate the dysregulation and role of small noncoding RNAs and
epigenetic mechanisms in a mouse model of CDD. These insights will then form
the basis to develop and test small molecule, antisense oligonucleotide and
gene therapy- based treatments for this genetic form of epilepsy. The role
requires expertise with in vivo neuroscience techniques including rodent
stereotaxic surgery, neurophysiological recordings (EEG), drug injections
and behavioral assessments.
Specifically, the duties of this role will include:
Testing the role and therapeutic potential of small noncoding RNAs and
epigenetic mechanisms using small molecule, antisense oligonucleotide and
gene therapy-based treatments for acquired and genetic forms of epilepsy,
including, but not limited to:
Perform steterotaxic surgery in rodents such as mice to induce and record
seizures
Deliver and evaluate the effects of experimental therapeutics such as
small molecules, antisense oligonucleotides and gene therapies
Perform behavioral and other assessments of therapeutic effects in rodent
models
Assist with husbandry and colony maintenance
Perform biochemical, pharmacological and molecular analyses of the role of
the identified RNAs and pathways in appropriate animal model of CDD,
including analysis of gene expression, brain function and histopathology
Additionally;
Liaise with industry partners and colleagues funded by relevant agencies
for purposes of collating, interpreting, reporting findings
Generate, support and submit funding applications and funding agency
reports
Develop and submit funding applications
Compliance with animal and human ethics requirements
Biobanking/curating tissue and biofluid resources relating to the project
Generate original peer-reviewed publications
Identify opportunities for IP
General duties to include:
Organising and drafting reports for internal and external stakeholders
Providing support in the monitoring of progress of research activities of
the group
Supporting and participating in the Centre's research activities
Complying with statutory legislation, RCSI and department rules and
requirements in furtherance of your own and general staff welfare and
safety
Undergoing programmes of training and development as may be required from
time to time
Representing the best interests of the department and RCSI at all times
Performing such other duties as may be required from time to time
Person Specification:
A PhD in neuroscience, pharmacology or related discipline
Research in the field of Neuroscience or closely-related brain disease
Careful and organized and able to interact in a busy scientific and, in
some cases, clinical environment
Experience and a proven track record in a similar role is desirable
Effective communications style
Proficiency in Computer/Presentation skills
Ability to make decisions and meet deadlines
Ability to work on one's own initiative as well as in a team environment
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 [email protected]. Please note we do not
accept CVs directly.
Employee benefits
At RCSI, we help care for our people so they can focus on our mission to
educate, nurture, and discover for the benefit of human health. RCSI make sure
you have the resources you need to thrive. We offer a wide range of benefits
in areas including time away, finance, community, health, and well-being and
insuring your financial future. In addition to our city centre campus and
world-class facilities, there are a wide range of excellent benefits available
to our employees, including:
Onsite gym €10 per month
Flexible working arrangements
Automatic enrolment to a pension scheme for all employees (Willis Towers
Watson, pension documents outlined below)
RCSI Investment Guide
Pension Scheme Guide
Benefit Schedule
Life assurance/death in service
Long term illness/disability income replacement
Free advice on health/motor and home insurance
Discounted services, including GP
Support for parents and carers
Taxsaver commuter tickets
BiketoWork
Free eye test at the National Optometry centre
€12/day for parking for all RSCI staff in the St. Stephens green/RCSI car
park
RCSI's Learning and Development team facilitate and provide training
opportunities for all staff
Sports and social club
Opportunities to volunteer in the community
26.5 days leave - 20 days annual leave plus 6.5 days Privilege days - In
addition to your annual leave entitlements and public holidays, RCSI also
grants privilege days to our employees (paid time off during Easter and
Christmas periods). We also offer a number of leave options to support
the working lives of our employees.
Paid maternity leave
Paid Paternity leave
Parental leave
