Laboratory of Austin Smith and Ge Guo, Living Systems Institute, Exeter, UK

We study the nature and regulation of pluripotency in stem cell cultures and the mammalian embryo. In human, naïve pluripotent stem cells can differentiate into both embryonic and extraembryonic cell types. It should therefore be possible to synthesise a faithful cellular model of the early human embryo solely from naïve stem cells. We are seeking talented post-doctoral scientists to expand the horizon of synthetic embryogenesis. In this project, you will extend from our recently developed human blastoid culture system to peri- and early post-implantation embryogenesis. You will study morphogenesis, cell fate specification and molecular signalling using lineage reporters, live cell imaging and single cell omics. You will have expertise and interest in developmental biology and  be motivated primarily by scientific curiosity. Experience in high resolution live imaging and/or biomimetic culture systems will be an advantage but are not essential.  Prior experience with pluripotent stem cells is not essential.