Research Fellow (Post doctoral researcher)

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Institution: Trinity College Dublin

Vacancy Category: Research

Contract Type: Temporary

Vacancy closing date: 18 Oct, 2021

Reference: 035291

Subject / Area: Health and Medical

Post Status:

Specific Purpose Contract – Full-time

Research Group / Department / School: Cunningham Laboratory Group, Discipline of Physiology,

School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin

Location: Watts Building, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland

Reports to: Prof. Mark Cunningham

Salary: Appointment will be made on the post-doctoral researcher, Level 2, scale at a point in line with Government Pay Policy.

Hours of Work: 40 hours per week

Closing Date:  5pm (GMT), [18th October 2021]

Post Summary

The Cunningham Research group based in the Discipline of Physiology, School of Medicine at Trinity College Dublin, conducts research in the field of neurophysiology with an emphasis on understanding the role of synaptic transmission in various forms of epilepsy. This interest includes the therapeutic relevance of targeting the glutamate system in terms of regulating neuronal excitability. The group is seeking to expand this area of research with reference to brain tumour related epilepsy. As such, an exciting opportunity exists to join this dynamic and multi-disciplinary team.

We are seeking to recruit a highly motivated post-doctorate researcher to a translational research programme being undertaken by the group. The successful post-holder will be part of a research team based in the Discipline of Physiology at Trinity College Dublin and will have opportunities to engage with project partners in RCSI, UCD and the Beaumont Hospital. 

The Science Foundation Ireland Frontiers for Future funded project award ‘Gene therapy approaches for brain tumour related epilepsy’ is designed to assess a novel gene therapy approach to limit pathological over-excitation of peritumoural neurons. The project will use a variety of animal and ex vivo human tissue models to develop this gene therapy approach for clinical translation.

Standard Duties and Responsibilities of the Post

1. To be responsible, under minimal academic direction, for the testing of a novel form of gene therapy in models of brain tumour related epilepsy using imaging, behavioural and electrophysiological approaches. The post holder will be responsible for carrying out complex work, experimental design, planning and progress of work, quantitative and qualitative analysis. This will include the collation and collection of data followed by presentation and discussion of results with academic supervisors/collaborators. The post holder will be expected to work consistently to a high standard. 

1. To regularly liaise with the Principal Investigator to organise workload and the provision of technical support for the satisfactory operation of research activities, facilities and equipment pertinent to the research project. 
2. In conjunction with the Principal Investigator, contribute to the planning of equipment and material needs. Maintain laboratory stocks of chemicals, media and other consumable requirements. Determine requirements and initiate orders, within specified laboratory ordering procedures. Monitor laboratory expenditure on specific projects from research grants using financial reports. 
3. To critically appraise and interpret research findings to understand their significance and use them as the basis for future investigations.  
4. To contribute to the writing up of research and manuscript preparation
5. To keep excellent laboratory records of all experimental procedures and outcomes, enabling interpretation with team members. Must be able to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, to share information with colleagues.
6. To engage with public and patients about the nature of the project and the scientific findings that emerge from the study.
7. The performance of risk assessments and maintaining safety laboratory records (e.g. Safety Data Sheets, and other regulations) in consultation with academic staff or, where appropriate, senior technical staff. 
8. To be responsible to a designated academic for the care and cleanliness of a specified common user area. To ensure good working standards and maintain quality control.
9. Provide assistance to academic, technical and research staff, and students on specific experimental techniques and in the use of specialised laboratory equipment. 
10. To be responsible for developing new protocols, under academic direction, as required. To regularly consult with academic staff regarding developing new or improved methods for experimental systems. To troubleshoot technical issues with equipment and methodology as needed in consultation with others in the research group.
11. To run analyses using specified techniques, alongside day-to-day tasks to keep the lab running smoothly. Must be able to prioritise tasks within an agreed work schedule. 
12. Manage Health and Safety, particularly in regard to in vitro work and work involving viruses, ensuring safe systems of work are in place in line with HSA guidelines.

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