Postdoctoral Researcher in Epigenetics of Cnidarian Stem Cells at School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland, Galway

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time, fixed term (2years) position as a Postdoctoral Researcher with the School of Natural Sciences at NUI Galway. This position is funded by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) and is available from 1st October 2015 to contract end date of 30th September 2017.

 Job Description:

The successful candidate will study the epigenetic mechanisms underlying the remarkable regenerative ability and growth plasticity of the cnidarian Hydractinia echinata. The work will involve mapping chromatin modifications genome-wide using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) sequencing. The research will also utilize bioinformatic data mining for conserved epigenetic modifiers from multiple in-house Hydractinia genomic databases, and functional assays of putative epigenetics modifying genes by misexpression. The results of this project will provide intriguing insight into how regeneration is regulated and will help us to understand why mammals cannot regenerate. The study will also allow a better understanding of the evolution of epigenetic mechanisms in metazoans, and underpin biomedical sciences such as regenerative medicine, aging and cancer research.

Qualifications:

A PhD in cell/molecular biology, biochemistry or related area is essential. A strong track record in epigenetics (e.g. ChIP-Seq) and knowledge in bioinformatics, demonstrated by first-author, peer-reviewed publications, would be an advantage. Candidates should also have excellent communication and organizational skills; be highly motivated and passionate about their research; and have strong interpersonal skills.

Salary: €37,750 – €42,394 per annum (public sector pay policy rules pertaining to new entrants will apply)

Start date: Position is available from 1st October 2015

Further information on research and working at NUI Galway is available on Research at NUI Galway.

For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie

Further information is available at http://www.nuigalway.ie/frank. Informal enquiries concerning the post may be made to uri.frank@nuigalway.ie or sebastian.gornik@nuigalway.ie.

To Apply: Applications to include a cover letter, full CV, and the contact details of three referees should be sent via e-mail (in word or PDF only) to Prof Frank (uri.frank@nuigalway.ie).

Applicants must include the reference number NUIG 057-15 in subject line of e-mail application.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00 pm on Tuesday 30th June 2015.

National University of Ireland, Galway is an equal opportunities employer.