Job Description
Job Title: Postdoctoral Researcher (in vivo neuroscience) Location: FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 123 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2. Reporting to: Dr. Omar Mamad and Prof David Henshall, Director, FutureNeuro Research Centre Tenure: Specified Purpose Contract for up to 24 months initially Salary: Aligned with the IUA Postdoctoral Researcher salary scale, subject to prior experience Objective of this post: The Mamad lab at RCSI studies the mechanisms and treatment of CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD). The specific objective of this post is to investigate the dysregulation and role of small noncoding RNAs and epigenetic mechanisms in a mouse model of CDD. These insights will then form the basis to develop and test small molecule, antisense oligonucleotide and gene therapy- based treatments for this genetic form of epilepsy. The role requires expertise with in vivo neuroscience techniques including rodent stereotaxic surgery, neurophysiological recordings (EEG), drug injections and behavioral assessments. Specifically, the duties of this role will include: Testing the role and therapeutic potential of small noncoding RNAs and epigenetic mechanisms using small molecule, antisense oligonucleotide and gene therapy-based treatments for acquired and genetic forms of epilepsy, including, but not limited to: Perform steterotaxic surgery in rodents such as mice to induce and record seizures Deliver and evaluate the effects of experimental therapeutics such as small molecules, antisense oligonucleotides and gene therapies Perform behavioral and other assessments of therapeutic effects in rodent models Assist with husbandry and colony maintenance Perform biochemical, pharmacological and molecular analyses of the role of the identified RNAs and pathways in appropriate animal model of CDD, including analysis of gene expression, brain function and histopathology Additionally; Liaise with industry partners and colleagues funded by relevant agencies for purposes of collating, interpreting, reporting findings Generate, support and submit funding applications and funding agency reports Develop and submit funding applications Compliance with animal and human ethics requirements Biobanking/curating tissue and biofluid resources relating to the project Generate original peer-reviewed publications Identify opportunities for IP General duties to include: Organising and drafting reports for internal and external stakeholders Providing support in the monitoring of progress of research activities of the group Supporting and participating in the Centre's research activities Complying with statutory legislation, RCSI and department rules and requirements in furtherance of your own and general staff welfare and safety Undergoing programmes of training and development as may be required from time to time Representing the best interests of the department and RCSI at all times Performing such other duties as may be required from time to time Person Specification: A PhD in neuroscience, pharmacology or related discipline Research in the field of Neuroscience or closely-related brain disease Careful and organized and able to interact in a busy scientific and, in some cases, clinical environment Experience and a proven track record in a similar role is desirable Effective communications style Proficiency in Computer/Presentation skills Ability to make decisions and meet deadlines Ability to work on one's own initiative as well as in a team environment We are all too aware that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can sometimes stop fantastic candidates putting themselves forward, so please do submit an application - we'd love to hear from you. Application Process Please apply online through the RCSI careers portal before the closing date with your CV and cover letter. Informal Enquiries can be directed to . Please note we do not accept CVs directly. Employee benefits At RCSI, we help care for our people so they can focus on our mission to educate, nurture, and discover for the benefit of human health. RCSI make sure you have the resources you need to thrive. We offer a wide range of benefits in areas including time away, finance, community, health, and well-being and insuring your financial future. In addition to our city centre campus and world-class facilities, there are a wide range of excellent benefits available to our employees, including: Onsite gym €10 per month Flexible working arrangements Automatic enrolment to a pension scheme for all employees (Willis Towers Watson, pension documents outlined below) RCSI Investment Guide Pension Scheme Guide Benefit Schedule Life assurance/death in service Long term illness/disability income replacement Free advice on health/motor and home insurance Discounted services, including GP Support for parents and carers Taxsaver commuter tickets BiketoWork Free eye test at the National Optometry centre €12/day for parking for all RSCI staff in the St. Stephens green/RCSI car park RCSI's Learning and Development team facilitate and provide training opportunities for all staff Sports and social club Opportunities to volunteer in the community 26.5 days leave - 20 days annual leave plus 6.5 days Privilege days - In addition to your annual leave entitlements and public holidays, RCSI also grants privilege days to our employees (paid time off during Easter and Christmas periods). We also offer a number of leave options to support the working lives of our employees. Paid maternity leave Paid Paternity leave Parental leave