Postdoc position in mtDNA regulation at MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit (University of Cambridge)

The University of Cambridge wishes to appoint a postdoctoral scientist to join the research groups of Prof Patrick Chinnery and Dr Jelle van den Ameele at the Department of Clinical Neurosciences and the MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit. https://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/38320/ 

The position is part of a collaborative MRC MitoCluster award, within the MRC National Mouse Genetics Network (https://nmgn.mrc.ukri.org), to develop and characterise novel mouse models of mitochondrial disease.

The focus of your work will be on studying how heteroplasmic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations change over time in somatic tissues, during development and aging. You will use innovative single-cell RNA- and ATAC-sequencing, develop novel library prep and targeted enrichment protocols, and apply these in different mouse strains with mtDNA mutations. Novel mtDNA mutations will be generated within the MitoCluster Consortium, using cutting-edge approaches for random and targeted mtDNA mutagenesis. You will generate cell lines from these mouse strains, and perform forward genetic screening using single-cell CRISPR/Cas9 technology, to identify novel nuclear genetic modifiers of mtDNA mutation burden.

You will have access to a team of experienced bioinformaticians, but will be encouraged and trained to perform independent in-depth bioinformatic analysis of large single-cell seq datasets. You will have access to clinical samples, to apply and translate novel technology and insights towards a human disease context.

You will drive the project within the laboratory, together with both group leaders and in close interaction with other members of the MRC MitoCluster. As a member of our research groups, you will participate in group meetings and internal seminars. You will assist in supervision of junior lab members. You will be encouraged to apply for external funding and receive support to undertake further training and career development.

Candidates are expected to be independent, highly motivated, and keen to work collaboratively with internal and external scientists. You will demonstrate core values of the labs, which include enthusiasm, openness and integrity. A PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics or a related field is required. You will have a publication track record, with a good, peer-reviewed first author paper, either published or in press. Ideal qualifications include experience with single-cell library preparation and analysis, advanced molecular biology techniques, and CRISPR/Cas9 screening, but others are welcome to apply.

Appointment will be full-time, for three years in the first instance. The position offers a competitive salary and enjoys the diverse and highly interactive research environment of the world-renowned Mitochondrial Biology Unit and Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, and the broad network of the MRC NMGN collaborators.

The lab and the wider University of Cambridge are committed, in their pursuit of academic and research excellence, to a pro-active and inclusive approach to equality, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups, promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity. Flexible working and working from home arrangements are available. The University particularly encourages women and candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds to apply.

Applicants should include a CV and cover letter with their application in a single pdf, along with contact information for three professional referees who can be contacted prior to interview. Applications will be reviewed immediately until the position is filled.

Lab websites:

MRC MBU Research groups: https://www.mrc-mbu.cam.ac.uk/research-groups

Cambridge Clinical Mitochondrial Research team: https://www-neurosciences.medschl.cam.ac.uk/mitocamb/

MRC MitoCluster: https://nmgn.mrc.ukri.org/clusters/mitochondria/