"Research Assistant (Part Time, Fixed Term)"

Applications are invited for a highly motivated Part-Time Bioinformatician to drive the computational analysis for a cutting-edge research project. The successful candidate will analyse and interpret complex, multi-omic datasets from in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro experiments to validate new therapeutic targets aimed at modulating neuro-immune interactions and halting chronic neuroinflammation. This project is part of a bigger MRC-sponsored effort to modulate microglial metabolic pathways to prevent secondary neuronal damage and cognitive decline.

The post is initially for one year at 0.3 FTE.

The ideal candidate should have:

• An (or equivalent experience) in Health Data Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Demonstrated experience in analysing next-generation omics data, particularly single-cell and spatial multi-omics datasets, as well as machine learning.
• Excellent data analysis/interpretation skill, good understanding of gene regulatory networks and graph theory.
• Strong programming skills (R or Python).
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Additional Desirable Skills:

• Experience in integrating other types of omics data.
• Knowledge of network biology and pathway analysis.

The Bioinformatician will be responsible for developing and applying computational pipelines and will work closely with wet-lab scientists to interpret findings and contribute to the lab's research goals (supervised by Dr. Luca Peruzzotti-Jametti).

Benefits:

Detailed benefits of working at the University are explained in the further particulars document. The benefits of working in this lab are:

• Cutting-Edge Research in Cell Metabolism: Contribute to our lab's groundbreaking research on cell metabolism and its impact on human health and disease, within the exciting fields of neuroscience and immunology.
• Thriving Multidisciplinary Environment: Immerse yourself in a vibrant research community within the Clifford Allbutt Building on the Cambridge Biosciences Campus. Benefit from close interactions with:
• Dynamic Team with Translational Focus: Be an integral part of a dynamic team conducting basic research with the potential to make a real-world impact.
• Exceptional Collaborations and Growth: Interact with researchers at various career stages, fostering a diverse and enriching learning environment. Engage in collaborative research with groups across the UK, Europe, and the globe. Lead projects and contribute to impactful scientific publications.
• Supportive Mentorship and Guidance: Receive active supervision and guidance, including regular one-to-one meetings to support your professional development.
• Comprehensive Support for International Researchers: We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Visa payment is available for international researchers employed on a Skilled Worker or Global Talent Visa.

Resources: https://www.LPJlab.org/

Relevant Publications:

• Mitochondrial complex I activity in microglia sustains neuroinflammation. Nature. 2024 Apr;628(8006):195-203. doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-07167-9.
• Increased cholesterol synthesis drives neurotoxicity in patient stem cell-derived model of multiple sclerosis. Cell Stem Cell. 2024 Nov 7;31(11):1574-1590.e11. doi: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.09.014.
• Targeting Mitochondrial Metabolism in Neuroinflammation: Towards a Therapy for Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. Trends Mol Med. 2018 Oct;24(10):838-855. doi: 10.1016/j.molmed.2018.07.007.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.