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- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team investigating the evolutionary origins of microRNAs.
- Company: Dynamic research group at a leading university in Biological Sciences.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, publish your findings, and attend international conferences.
- Other info: Open-ended contract with excellent opportunities for career development.
- Why this job: Dive into groundbreaking research and contribute to our understanding of early animal evolution.
- Qualifications: Strong background in molecular biology and experience with bioinformatics and RNA pathways.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join Vengamanaidu Modepalli’s group to support and deliver a BBSRC‑funded research project investigating the evolutionary origins of microRNA‑mediated post‑transcriptional gene regulation. This project investigates when and how microRNA (miRNA) pathways originated and what their ancestral functions were across the early animal lineage. Emerging evidence from sponges and unicellular holozoans indicates that the evolutionary history of miRNA biogenesis and function is far more ancient and complex than previously believed. By studying the early-diverging lineages and their unicellular relatives, the research aims to reconstruct the ancestral RNA interference (RNAi) machinery that predates the rise of complex multicellular animals.
Responsibilities
- You will work closely with the Principal Investigator to generate new fundamental insights into how RNA interference (RNAi) pathways, particularly the microRNA (miRNA) machinery, emerged and diversified during early animal evolution.
- You will be responsible for executing the project’s core experimental workflows to characterise the biogenesis, function and mechanisms of miRNAs in sponges and unicellular holozoans.
- In addition, you will undertake associated bioinformatic analyses.
- Plan and conduct lab and aquarium experiments in line with the main goals of the project.
- Disseminate findings by presenting results at national and international conferences.
- Prepare research manuscripts for publication.
- Participate in outreach events.
You should apply if you have:
- Strong background in molecular biology and RNA biology.
- Hands‑on experience in Western blotting and antibody validation.
- Experience in bioinformatics analysis of high‑throughput sequencing data.
- Knowledge of molecular interaction assays, such as protein–protein and protein–RNA interaction techniques.
- Ability to work with non‑model organisms or unconventional systems.
- Hands‑on expertise with immunoprecipitation-based methods, particularly Argonaute IP (AGO‑IP).
- Experience with small RNA pathways.
- Familiarity with RNA modifications and methylation analyses.
- Knowledge of non-bilaterian animals, early metazoan evolution, or RNA pathway evolution.
- Competence in bioinformatic pipelines specific to small RNA biology.
Personal Qualities
- Curiosity and enthusiasm for understanding fundamental biological mechanisms.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills within multidisciplinary environments.
Additional information
- Contract type: Open-ended (Fixed funding for 2 years, 6 months).
- Work pattern: Full-time.
- Grade: I.
- School/Unit: Biological Sciences.
Research Associate in Evolutionary Origins of MicroRNAs in England employer: University of Bristol
Contact Detail:
University of Bristol Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Evolutionary Origins of MicroRNAs in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of molecular biology and RNA research. Attend conferences or seminars where you can meet potential collaborators or employers. Remember, sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your hands-on experience with techniques like Western blotting and bioinformatics analysis. This will help you stand out during interviews and showcase your expertise in a tangible way.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your communication skills. Be ready to discuss your research experiences and how they relate to the evolutionary origins of microRNAs – this is your chance to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals like you. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your curiosity and enthusiasm for understanding fundamental biological mechanisms.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Evolutionary Origins of MicroRNAs in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in molecular biology and RNA biology. We want to see how your skills align with the project, so don’t be shy about showcasing your hands-on experience with techniques like Western blotting and bioinformatics.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for the research and explain why you’re the perfect fit for our team. We love seeing candidates who are curious and passionate about evolutionary biology.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills: Since this role involves working closely with the Principal Investigator and other team members, make sure to highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated in multidisciplinary environments to achieve common goals.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates interested in joining our research team!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bristol
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your molecular biology and RNA biology knowledge. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with techniques like Western blotting and bioinformatics analysis, as these will be crucial for the role.
✨Show Your Curiosity
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for evolutionary biology and microRNA pathways. Prepare to share insights or recent findings in the field that excite you, as this shows your genuine interest and engagement with the subject matter.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about specific experimental workflows and methodologies. Think through your past experiences with immunoprecipitation methods and small RNA pathways, and be ready to explain how you would approach the project’s core experiments.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since teamwork is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve collaborated in multidisciplinary environments before, and think of examples that highlight your strong communication skills.