The University of Manchester
Research Assistant in Functional Genomics of Skeletal Disease
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Research Assistant Position in The Rice Lab
We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant to join the Rice Lab in the Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences at The University of Manchester. This two-year post will contribute to a programme of functional genomics research investigating how genetic variation influences gene regulation and cellular function in osteoarthritis and other skeletal traits.
A major focus of the role will be the functional characterisation of non-coding regulatory elements in bone and cartilage cells. The successful candidate will use CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing in human cell models, including ASC52Telo mesenchymal stromal cells, and investigate the consequences of regulatory-element deletion during osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation. The post will also involve culture of primary human cells and the collection, receipt and processing of human joint tissues obtained through clinical collaborators. Applicants should have strong practical experience in mammalian cell culture and molecular biology, with experience of genome editing, primary human cells or skeletal cell differentiation advantageous. We are particularly looking for a careful, proactive and collaborative experimental scientist who can work independently, troubleshoot experiments and generate robust, reproducible data.
Responsibilities
- Delivering a defined programme of experimental research under the direction of Dr Sarah Rice, planning and prioritising day-to-day experimental activity and regularly discussing progress and priorities.
- Culturing and maintaining established human cell lines, mesenchymal stromal cells and primary human cells using high-quality aseptic technique.
- Generating and validating targeted regulatory-element deletions and other experimental cell models using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing and related molecular approaches.
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About You
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:
Essential Criteria
- Knowledge of mammalian cell culture, aseptic technique and core molecular biology principles.
- Ability to plan and prioritise multi-stage experimental work and deliver reproducible results.
- Ability to analyse, interpret and clearly present experimental data in written and oral formats.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience of primary human cell culture and/or processing human tissue samples.
- Experience of mesenchymal stromal/stem cell culture or osteogenic and/or chondrogenic differentiation.
We value transferable skills and real-world experience as much as formal qualifications.
Our Benefits
- Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
- Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
- Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
- Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
- Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers
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Equal Opportunities
As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Flexible Working
Our university is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Application Process
Please be aware that due to the number of applications we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.
Any CV submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Dr Sarah Rice
Email: sarah.rice@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
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This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
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