Post-doctoral developmental biologist/bioengineer

In the laboratories of Austin Smith and Ge Guo we study the regulatory principles of pluripotency in stem cells and embryos. Recently, we discovered that human naïve pluripotent stem cells can differentiate to both embryonic and extra-embryonic cell types. We further found that a cellular model of the early embryo can be generated solely from naïve stem cells. We have an exciting post-doctoral opening to investigate self-organisation and lineage segregation in the naïve stem cell model of the early human embryo. You will apply bioengineering and biomimetic approaches in combination with molecular genetics, imaging and ‘omics. You will be interested in how the genome encodes morphogenesis and have the creativity to design incisive experimental and analytical approaches. You will have the technical ability to manipulate early embryo structures and experience in advanced imaging. Additional skills in 3D cell culture systems, genetic manipulation and ‘omics will be an advantage. Prior experience with pluripotent stem cells is not essential and training can be provided.The post is available from beginning of 2022 and is funded for three-years.