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- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team investigating the origins of microRNA in early animal evolution.
- Company: Dynamic research group at a leading university focused on molecular biology.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, publish your findings, and attend international conferences.
- Other info: Open-ended contract with excellent career development opportunities in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make groundbreaking discoveries in evolutionary biology and contribute to exciting scientific advancements.
- Qualifications: Strong background in molecular biology, RNA biology, and bioinformatics required.
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 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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of molecular biology and RNA research. Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meet-ups to chat with professionals who might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your hands-on experience with techniques like Western blotting and bioinformatics analysis. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors in the field. Focus on articulating your understanding of microRNA pathways and your experience with non-model organisms to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of exciting opportunities, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications this way!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Evolutionary Origins of MicroRNAs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your 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 relevant hands-on experience!
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 genuine passion for evolutionary biology and microRNA research.
Showcase Your Skills: Be specific about your technical skills, especially those related to Western blotting, bioinformatics, and working with non-model organisms. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, so make sure we know what you bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
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 some insightful questions about the research project and how it fits into the broader context of early animal evolution. This shows you're genuinely interested!
✨Team Player Vibes
Since this role involves working closely with a Principal Investigator and possibly other team members, highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated in multidisciplinary environments to achieve research goals.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to discuss specific experimental workflows and methodologies related to the project. Think about how you would approach lab and aquarium experiments, and be ready to explain your thought process and any relevant experiences.