Senior Research Associate in Genetic Epidemiology

We are looking for an enthusiastic and skilled researcher to work on a genetic epidemiology research project investigating whether adiponectin prevents the development of kidney disease, via the glycocalyx that lines the filtering blood vessels in the kidney. This is a 14 month senior research associate post, joining a 3 yr post after 22 months completion, working in the Bristol Renal group to undertake a Kidney Research UK funded project.

There are three main objectives:

• The relationship between circulating adiponectin and measures of glycocalyx depth will be examined
• The causal relationship between circulating adiponectin on diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), will be explored
• The causal between circulating levels of adiponectin and albuminuria will be explored, and whether circulating matrix metalloproteinases (glycocalyx sheddases) mediate this effect.

The project will involve using large population datasets and consortia (e.g., Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, UK Biobank) and techniques in genetic (e.g., Mendelian randomization) and observational epidemiology. This is a predominantly epidemiology-based project, although there is an opportunity for in vitro/ex vivo work on tissue and cell lines.

What will you be doing?

You will be responsible for running this research project including designing and conducting experiments, analysing data and presenting research findings in various settings, under the support and direction of the supervisory team.

You will work with big data including bioinformatic data and epidemiological data including Avon Longitudinal Study of Children of the Nineties (ALSPAC), UK Biobank and other publicly available datasets.

You will be part of thriving research community in Bristol Renal and the wider Bristol cardiovascular community under the umbrella of the Bristol Heart Institute.

There is an expectation that post-holder will prepare manuscripts for publication in high impact journals.

You should apply if

You have a desire to join a large and friendly research group and to take advantage of the opportunities on offer for career development in renal research and acquisition of related academic skills.

A PhD or equivalent qualification in a relevant field is essential, as is a strong track-record in laboratory-based discovery research.

Experience working with big data and driving statistical analysis is required and experience in the renal/ diabetes and/or glycobiology research is highly desirable, as is expertise in the techniques required for this project.

The ability to work both independently and as part of a team is essential. The applicant should have critical thinking skills and have excellent organisational skills.

Additional information

Contract type: Open ended contract with fixed term funding for 14 months

Work pattern: 1 FTE

Shift pattern: Full time, Mon- Fri

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 17/08/2025

For any informal queries please contact: Dr Rebecca Foster