If you have any positions, and you’re a member, contact us by email (web@ukev.org.uk) to advertise them below:
Postdoctoral position available at Cambridge Institute for Medical Research/Cambridge Veterinary School closing: 26 Oct 2023
Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position, as part of a project funded by the PetPlan Charitable Trust, which will aim to identify novel biomarkers of kidney disease in cats. Early diagnosis of kidney disease in cats is currently hampered by the late onset of symptoms and a lack of reliable non-invasive diagnostic tests, therefore this project will investigate if miRNAs within urinary extracellular vesicles (EVs) can be used as non-invasive biomarkers for chronic kidney disease in cats. Study of changes in the miRNA content of urinary EVs may also provide insights into the pathophysiology underlying chronic kidney disease in cats that might in turn lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies that can delay the onset and progression of kidney disease.
The applicant will work alongside Dr Tim Williams and Professor Fiona Karet, both of which have a proven track record in EV research, and Dr Andrew Grant and Dr Xiaonan Wang (Shanghai University), who have extensive experience in transcriptome analysis, including bioinformatics. The main focus of the research led by Dr Williams is to study the biology of EVs and investigate their utility as a source of biomarkers of renal and urinary tract diseases in humans and mammals. Further information about the work of the group can be found at https://www.vet.cam.ac.uk/
Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Tim Williams (tlw27@cam.ac.uk)
Post Doc Research Assoc at University of Salford. Closing: 24/09/2023
The early diagnosis of FASD is limited by an inability to confirm alcohol exposure during the pregnancy. For this unmet need, our vision is to identify a non-invasive biomarker for FASD. Northwest England suffers disproportionately from alcohol-related harm. The devolution of health and social care allowed Greater Manchester (GM) to respond to FASD, becoming a leader in England.
We bring together inter-disciplinary university researchers, technicians, and students with NHS colleagues to address an unmet clinical need, particularly benefiting the NW of the country. We are delighted that Greater Manchester Integrated Care is part of our team to realise this vision.
The project team members are the founders of the UK FASD research collaborative and are currently collaborating with Universities of Surrey, Bristol and Brighton on FASD projects; relationships that we will further develop with this programme.
Our vision is to develop a proof-of-principle dataset of using small molecules (microRNA) as possible biomarkers for FASD. We focus on a specific subset of microRNAs that are maternally expressed (hence relevant for maternal alcohol exposure), known for its importance in foetal brain development and for its importance as biomarkers in various human diseases, including cancers.
If you have any questions or would like a chat about the role, then please contact Dr. Arijit Mukhopadhyay, at a.mukhopadhyay@salford.ac.uk.
Link to here: https://universityofsalford.tal.net/vx/appcentre-ext/brand-4/candidate/so/pm/1/pl/3/opp/1922-Post-Doctoral-Research-Associate/en-GB
Research Fellow (Fixed Term) at National Health and Lung Inst, Imperial College London. Closing: 13/09/2023
Professor Emanueli develops fundamental and translational research focusing on understanding and addressing the contributory causes of ischemia in the heart and lower limbs. Moreover, this includes investigation of new biomarkers to support the development of clinical studies and improve clinical practice. She has a special interest in noncoding RNAs, extracellular vesicles and the pericardium.
The candidate’s research niche is intended to complement and support the research programme of the Emanueli team. Reciprocally, the candidate is expected to be able to use the already present expertise to improve their profiles. Areas of particular interest are cardiovascular therapeutics (including HTS screening) and bioengineering. The candidate will be familiar with cardiovascular physiopathology and the relevant in vitro, ex-vivo and in vivo models used in the field. Knowledge in cardio-immunology, cardio-metabolisms are of particular interest. This is a research-focused role. We are looking for a high-calibre individual who would become a major asset to this scientific field.
This is a research-focused role with opportunities to develop a broad range of related skills relevant to success in an academic career. These will include opportunities to teach and examine courses to all levels: undergraduate, master’s and higher research degrees, through lectures, seminars, course work, tutorials, and personal supervision.
Applicants are encouraged to contact Prof Costanza Emanueli for an informal discussion about the role jeremy.hill@imperial.ac.uk – Closing date: 13/09/2023
To apply, visit www.imperial.ac.uk/jobs and search by the job reference MED04102
Research Associate (Fixed Term) at Dept of Pathology, Cambridge University.
The Edgar lab at the Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge wishes to recruit a motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join their team.
The Edgar lab focus on endosome and exosome membrane trafficking, with a specific interest in the role of tethered exosomes in health and disease. Exosomes are small, extracellular vesicles with roles in intercellular communication. Exosomes are generated initially as intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) within multivesicular bodies (MVBs), and become termed ‘exosomes’ upon fusion of the MVB with the plasma membrane. The Edgar lab have shown that cells can retain exosomes on their plasma membrane (see ‘Tetherin is an exosomal tether’, DOI: 10.7554/eLife.17180 – https://elifesciences.org/articles/17180), although how and why this occurs remains largely unexplored. This retention of exosomes at the cell surface is dependent on the anti-viral protein tetherin, which plays a similar role in the retention of several enveloped viruses.
This research project aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms of exosome tethering, and determine how tetherin is trafficked to ILVs and exosomes. You will contribute to fundamental discoveries in this rapidly growing field of biology. The ideal candidate will be motivated and enthusiastic, and have a PhD in cell biology or a related field. Experience with molecular biology, biochemistry, confocal microscopy and cell culture are desirable. An interest in cell biology and membrane trafficking is preferred. The successful candidate will be given the opportunity to learn cutting-edge microscopy techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, during the project.
Appointment is dependent on having a PhD. The position is full-time. This opportunity is funded by a Sir Henry Dale Fellowship awarded to James Edgar by the Wellcome Trust and Royal Society. The funds for this post are available for 18 months in the first instance.
For more information on the work of the Edgar lab, please visit https://www.path.cam.ac.uk/directory/james-edgar. For informal enquiries, please email je333@cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference PK36963 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. https://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/41225/
18-month Postdoctoral contract, MICA-AlimH at INRAE-FRANCE. ASAP.
Extracellular vesicles associated to indole-producing synthetic gut community:
a signal pathway between gut microbiota and brain in newborns?
The UMR 1280 (Physiopathology of Nutritional Adaptations, PhAN), https://www6.angers-
nantes.INRAE.fr/PhAN, is a Research Unit affiliated with INRAE AlimH Department (Nutrition, Chemical Food Safety, Consumer Behavior Research Division, https://www.INRAE.fr/en/divisions/human-nutrition) and Nantes University (UN) (https://english.univ-nantes.fr). It is also supported by INRAE MICA (Microbiology and Food Chain Research Division, https://www.inrae.fr/en/divisions/mica). It is a unique structure that performs translational and clinical research on the role played by nutrition in the first 1000 days of life in human, thanks to the collaborative work between obstetricians and pediatricians of CHU de Nantes, professors at the UN, and researchers at INRAE, through studies performed in cohorts of women and infants, and deciphers mechanisms through the use of experimental animal models. The research conducted at UMR PhAN is dedicated to specific fields of developmental programming and the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD).
The bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) produced by gut microbiota convey active
biomolecules. Over the last decade, diverse functions of molecules transported by BEVs have been described to modulate host responses at different levels. The human gut microbiota is considered as one of the main factors contributing to the health care throughout the life and it could have a long- term impact according to the DOHaD concept. More recent studies on the microbiota-brain axis have shown that the indole (only synthetized by bacteria) and its derivative compounds have an effect on the central nerve system (CNS). This was correlated with cerebral disorders of C-section babies compared to vaginal delivered infants. The main objective of this study aims at investigating the BEVs from indole-producing bacteria frequently found in newborn gut microbiota. The study will include the analyses of samples for BEVs production from in vitro bacterial cultures and in vivo experimentations on preclinical models in controlled conditions. BEVs will be characterized by physical and biological assessments after extraction and purification. Biological functions of the BEVs derived from indole-producing bacteria and synthetic gut communities will be determined using our expertise on specific stem cell lines and ex vivo electrophysiological analyses on brain slides.
Position: 18-month Postdoctoral contract
Starting date: As soon as possible
Research funding: The position is funded by MICA-AlimH at INRAE-FRANCE
Contact: Applications should be addressed by e-mail to Dr Odile Tresse (odile.tresse@inrae.fr),
including a curriculum vitae with a short statement for research interests, scientific production and the contact information of at least two referees
Location: Physiopathology of Nutritional Adaptations (UMR PhAN-1280), Nantes Hospital Hôtel-Dieu, Medical University of Nantes, France
Candidate profile and required skills: We are looking for a rigorous candidate with creative and
collaborative spirit. PhD in Microbiology, Experience/Knowledge in EVs, Scientific English speaking and writing are required. Knowledge in microbiota is recommended. Good communication skills (oral and written) and the ability to work in a team are essential.
Research Technician post in Placental Biology, Extracellular Vesicles and Reproductive Immunology – Imperial College, London
Applications are invited for a Research Technician post in Placental Biology, Extracellular Vesicles and Reproductive Immunology. The overall aim of the project is to investigate the interaction between the maternal immune system and the placenta via extracellular vesicles. The post includes the opportunity to perform, and gain experience in a very wide range of advanced techniques, including cellular and molecular assays. You will join a research group working to understand the communication between the immune system and the placenta during pregnancy, headed by Dr Beth Holder: (https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/b.holder and https://www.theholderlab.com/ ).
You will be a motivated, hard-working, and independent team member who is eager to learn and help to drive excellent scientific research. Experience in tissue culture, molecular biology, immunological assays, and microscopy is highly desirable, though training will be given. Additionally, experience in the study of extracellular vesicles is also highly desirable. As a fastidious lab worker, you will be an excellent record keeper and support the running of the laboratory, including assisting with routine sample processing.
We study placentas from term delivery, as well as first/second trimester placentas from terminations of pregnancy. Therefore, please note that the role requires you to be able to work with these samples.
See: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/jobs/description/MED03912/research-technician
Three Teaching & Research Academic posts available (1 x Lecturer; 2 x SL/Reader) – Aston University (School of Biosciences)
We are particularly interested in receiving applications from individuals who can demonstrate research excellence focused on the molecular and cell biology of health and disease with a view to translating outcomes into novel therapeutic approaches. Applicants with a focus on the biology of membranes and their components, or stem cells and regenerative medicine in these settings are particularly encouraged to apply. Experience of teaching in Immunology, Stem Cells and Regenerative medicine and/or Cell Signalling/Endocrinology would be advantageous.
Lecturer: https://jobs.aston.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?ref=0374-23
SL/Reader: https://jobs.aston.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?ref=0375-23
Research Fellow in Cardiac Extracellular Vesicles – University of Surrey, GU2 7XH
£34,308 to £38,592 per annum, full time – Closes: 26th March 2023 – Dr Patrizia Camelliti
Job link – www.jobs.ac.uk/job/CXQ688/research-fellow-in-cardiac-extracellular-vesicles
Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research fellow position funded by the British Heart Foundation in the laboratory of Dr Patrizia Camelliti, in the Cardiovascular Section of the School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey. The aim of the project is to advance understanding of the mechanisms of cell-cell communication in the heart, with a specific focus on extracellular vesicles. The work will be conducted in collaboration with Professor Aled Clayton (Cardiff University), Dr Konstantinos Savvatis (Barts Heart Centre), and Professor John McVey (University of Surrey). The work will include functional analysis of cardiac cells/tissue and detailed analysis of extracellular vesicles cargo. We are looking for a positive individual with experience in extracellular vesicles, cell culture, proteomics, RNA seq, bioinformatics, confocal microscopy and FACS. Experience in iPSC generation, culture and differentiation, and electrophysiological methods would constitute an advantage. Competency in data analysis and scientific writing (as evidenced by authorship of peer-reviewed publications) is fundamental. We are looking for an individual able to work and think independently as well as interact positively with colleagues and collaborators. Your PhD could be in Molecular Biology, Biosciences, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, or related subjects.
For more information and informal enquiries, contact Dr Patrizia Camelliti (e-mail: p.camelliti@surrey.ac.uk). This post is offered on a full time basis and is fixed-term for 30 months.
Post Doc – RDM Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU
We are seeking a highly motivated key post-doctoral scientist to work within the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine on a newly funded British Heart Foundation Intermediate Fellowship awarded to Dr Naveed Akbar. This translational laboratory aims to determine how extracellular vesicles can be utilised for therapeutics and diagnostics following acute myocardial infarction. The appointee will take primary responsibility for the day-to-day conduct of a research project that builds on an existing programme of work on how endothelial cell derived extracellular vesicles induce immune cell mobilisation and transcriptional programming following acute myocardial infarction. You will gain experience in a breadth of experimental work and will be supported by in-house genome engineering and bioengineering, the rodent model of acute myocardial infarction, flow cytometry, microfluidics, complimentary “-omics” platforms and specialist bioinformatics support. A strong collaboration is expected with the group’s existing collaborators in Oxford, Stockholm and Boston.
Your duties will include taking initiative in the planning of research; conduct and plan your own scientific work with appropriate supervision. As well as this, you will conduct data analysis and ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times.This is a full-time appointment on a fixed term contract for 3 years funded by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) and you will be based at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU.
Applications for this vacancy are to be made online; you will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement which explains how you meet the selection criteria for the post.
Only applications received before 12.00 midday on 23 February 2023 can be considered. Interviews are scheduled to place on 08 March 2023.
Three-Year Postdoctoral Position at University of Nottingham
This is a 3-year project funded by The Medical Research Foundation at the interface of cancer biology and neuronal function investigating how the former impacts on sensitisation and pain. As part of a multidisciplinary team based in Nottingham, this Post-Doctoral research Associate will support the project entitled “Extracellular vesicles as conduits for the transfer of biologically active compounds which mediate cancer chemotherapy based pain in early life”. The scientist appointed to this role will undertake laboratory-based research to identify and characterise the cargo of extracellular vesicles (EV) derived from childhood patient medulloblastoma cell lines, investigate how these alter the functional properties of sensory neurons and determine their biodistribution and impact on pain behaviours in laboratory rodents. Pain is the primary side-effect of cancer chemotherapy and not only impacts patients undergoing treatment but also significantly impacts cancer survivors leading to long-lasting, deleterious effects on mental and physical health as well as engagement with wider society. This is especially true when cancer occurs in childhood where chemotherapy induced pain can lead alterations in the development and maturation of both peripheral and central nervous systems, which can result in long-term changes in neuronal function and pain processing.
For more information or an informal discussion please contact Dr Gareth Hathway (gareth.hathway@nottingham.ac.uk) or Dr Federico Dajas-Bailador (federico.dajas-bailador@nottingham.ac.uk).
Senior Scientist, Biology – Mursla Bio, Cambridge
Our company
Mursla is a breakthrough exosome characterisation company based on a novel proprietary technology platform, ExoPhenoTM, which detects the multi-omics cargo of tissue-specific exosomes in blood. It enables various biomedical applications from non-invasive cancer detection to drug discovery. Exosomes (also known as Extracellular Vesicles or EVs) have been shown to reflect the state of their cellular sources, transporting specific ‘-omics’ information (DNA, RNA, proteins, lipids and metabolites) either locally or to distant sites via the circulatory system, including blood. Our technology, ExoPhenoTM, consists of proprietary and patented technologies, which integrate wet lab (validated exosome tissue-of-origin markers, pre-analytical multi-omics sequencing workflow and ultrasensitive exosome marker detection systems) and dry lab analysis via machine learning.
The position
We are offering an exceptional opportunity to join a multidisciplinary and multicultural team of biologists, physicists and engineers and lead our laboratory efforts in the booming field of extracellular vesicles/exosomes. We are looking for an innovative and ambitious Senior Scientist in Biology who will work alongside the executive team. This individual will be at the core of our laboratory work and will benefit from large upside in terms of compensation, career progression and future responsibility.
Key responsibilities:
– Overseeing and maintaining best practices in the laboratory
– Supporting and influencing the development and implementation of our ExoPhenoTM platform
– Executing molecular biology assays and experiments in relation with the research and clinical workflows
– Proposing better automation and sample characterisation methods when relevant
– Staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the field;
– Interacting cross-functionally with colleagues in bio-informatics and translation;
– Introducing novel cellular engineering and gene editing technologies and assays, depending on experience
– Working in close collaboration with interdisciplinary group of scientists in biology, translation and engineering;
Requirements:
– Ph.D. or at least 5 years of research experience in Bioengineering, Cell Biology, Molecular
Biology, Biochemistry or related discipline
– Good understanding of exosome biology and demonstrable hands-on experience with
conventional exosome characterisation techniques
– Hands-on experience with analytical techniques such as immunostaining, ELISA, WB and microscopy techniques.
– Practical experience of molecular processes including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, NGS sequencing.
– Self-starting, independent attitude aligned with strong desire to build game-changing
technologies and impact discovery in life sciences;
– Ability to work in a fast-paced and quickly changing environment;
– Able to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team;
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
– Good sense of humour;
Preferred Qualifications:
Candidates would have an advantage if they can demonstrate some of the following:
– Line management experience
– Demonstrable experience in developing novel bioassays
– Good understanding of cancer biology
– Practical experience or demonstrable understanding of bioinformatics databases/platforms
such as Human Protein Atlas, UniProt, Reactome, Cytoscape, etc
– Well-rounded practical experience and knowledge of cellular assays and cell phenotyping
(FACS, IHC, clonogenic, cytotoxicity and viability)
– Experience in generating library preps for NGS
– Hands-on experience in RNAseq performed on human clinical samples
– Disseminated work in the form of peer-reviewed manuscripts
Mursla is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
To apply, please submit your CV and concise cover letter on LinkedIn or send to career@mursla.com. The deadline for applications is mid-June.
PhD studentship: “The potential utility of human regulatory T cell-deriVed ExtRacellular veSicles to control inflammation in rheUmatoid arthiritiS (VERSUS)”
Keele University (at the RJAH Orthopaedic Hospital) – Closing 15th August 2022
Funding is available to cover 100% UK student tuition fees, and consumables for 3 years. £7500pa is available for stipend support for 3 years.
One in every 16 of people in the UK live with an autoimmune condition causing them pain, difficulty, lost opportunities in work and in life, and in many cases placing them at risk of early death. Autoimmunity occurs when the immune system attacks the body. Regulatory cells (also called Tregs) are cells of immune system which have a role in regulating or suppressing other cells in the immune system. Tregs control the immune response to self and foreign particles and help prevent autoimmune disease. Understanding how Tregs supress cells in the immune system could help improve treatments for people with autoimmune conditions including lupus, type 1 diabetes, Sjögren syndrome, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system destroys the lining of the joints. At present, autoimmune conditions cannot be cured. Tregs communicate with other cells in the immune system by producing the little particles called extracellular vesicles. This project will explore these particles to find out what’s inside them and how they differ in healthy people and patients with rheumatoid arthritis using a variety of different tests. Next, this project will explore how the extracellular vesicles function. We will add the particles into a dish with immune cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis. These cells are overactive, which causes the pain, inflammation and swelling in the joints, so we want to see if our extracellular vesicles can suppress these immune cells. If these experiments are successful and the extracellular vesicles contain anti-inflammatory properties, then they have the potential to be applied to many different autoimmune conditions.
CD4+CD25+/highCD127low/− regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a crucial role in maintaining peripheral tolerance, by preventing autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. In this project we would like to explore whether the biological characteristics and functionality of regulatory T cell-derived extracellular vesicles in patients with rheumatoid arthritis differed from those in healthy donors.
The overarching aim of this proposal is to define the feasibility of using Tregs-derived EVs as a biological therapeutic for RA patients. The project will meet this aim through the achievement of four primary objectives:
- Isolate and investigate phenotypic and functional properties of ex vivo expanded Tregs from the peripheral blood of RA patients and healthy volunteers.
- Isolate Tregs-derived EVs and define their vesicular properties according to internationally agreed criterion (ISEV 2019).
- Quantify and compare the suppressive efficacy of EVs derived from disease or healthy donors.
- Identify the differentially-expressed vesicular factors that are potentially responsible for their suppressive effects.
This project provides the opportunity to work closely with researchers at different Universities, clinicians and human patient samples/data to address a pertinent clinical question that will likely lead to patient benefit. The studentship will be based at the RJAH Orthopaedic Hospital in Oswestry, however, there will be the occasional need to attend training at Cardiff University and the University of East London and at Keele University.
For any further information or for an informal chat about the project please contact: Dr Oksana Kehoe on o.kehoe@keele.ac.uk
Source of funding: The Institute of Orthopaedics, School of Medicine
Eligibility Criteria: This PhD is suitable for UK students with a degree in the biological/natural sciences – minimum degree classification 2.1. Students with overseas status are welcome to apply but may need to fund the remainder of their fees from alternative sources.
An interest in regenerative medicine, immunology and some experience in tissue culture techniques is desirable.
Closing date for applications: 15th August 2022
Interviews will be organised from September 2022 onwards. The position will be considered filled once a suitable candidate has been identified.
Application process: Go to http://www.keele.ac.uk/pgresearch/studentships/ and click on the “Apply online here” button in this studentship.
Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Reader in Biosciences – Aston University – 30th May 2022 closing
Full time – Grade 8, 9 or 10 – £36,382 to £60,022 per annum
The School of Biosciences is seeking to make up to four appointments at Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Reader level to enhance the research, impact and teaching profile of the School. Led by an ambitious research and development strategy, we are seeking to build upon and develop our established research strengths.
We are particularly interested in receiving applications from individuals who can demonstrate research excellence focused on the molecular cell biology of health, disease and ageing with a view to translating outcomes into novel therapeutic approaches. Applicants with a focus on the biology of membranes in these settings are particularly encouraged to apply. All applicants must demonstrate an alignment with our existing research programmes and, for the senior positions, be able to lead and strengthen our research through their addition to our team.
Applicants should also be able to demonstrate a track record of effective teaching commensurate with career stage and an enthusiasm for flexible teaching across the range of programmes (UG: Biochemistry, Biological and Biomedical Sciences; PG: MSc Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine; Biosciences MRes; Level 7 Research Scientist Degree Apprenticeship). Experience of teaching in areas such as physiology, metabolism, stem cells and regenerative medicine, molecular genetics, and protein science would be advantageous.
Any application must be able to demonstrate your necessary teamwork skills to foster collaboration with existing Biosciences colleagues and to build links both within the University and externally, including the aptitude and ability to engage in continuous professional development.
You should clearly state how your appointment will build critical mass within the School and support the University mission through high quality, exploitable research that is accessible for business and has a positive impact on society.
You can apply for these positions by clicking on the relevant link below:
Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Biosciences
Potential applicants may wish to contact the Head of Biosciences, Professor Andrew Devitt (a.devitt1@aston.ac.uk) and the Associate Dean for Research, Professor Roslyn Bill (r.m.bill@aston.ac.uk) for informal discussion about the post before applying. Our web site at http://www1.aston.ac.uk/provides further details about the College of Health & Life Sciences
Research Fellow (Post Doctorial) – Extracellular Vesicles in Cancer (EVIC) – Trinity College Dublin – 7th May 2022 closing
Full-time; Fixed-term for June 2022 – Sept 2024
Salary Appointment will be made on the IUA Post-Doctoral Researcher Level 2 Point 1 with annual increment in line with Government Pay Policy.
Prof Lorraine O’Driscoll Group, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute & Trinity St. James Cancer Institute (https://www.tcd.ie)
Our research group (the O’Driscoll group) at Trinity College Dublin has extensive
experience in research of exosomes and other extracellular vesicles (collectively termed EVs). EVs
are emerging as important players in cell-to-cell communication under physiological and
pathological circumstances. Some studies have suggested significantly more EVs in cancer
patients’ blood compared to healthy controls; other have not. We hypothesis that this conflict in
observation may be due to EVs’ heterogenous nature. Furthermore, for patients about to start
neo-adjuvant treatment, we observed that small EVs (sEV) concentrations are great for non-
responder partial responder; complete responders; controls. Here we will more comprehensively investigate sEVs’ relevance. In vitro and in vivo studies across several solid tumour types implicate EVs released from cancer cells as causally involved in invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug- resistance. Previous attempts to block EV release, and so these consequences, have been hampered by the approaches used also affecting EV release from normal cells that may be important for physiological events. However, we have now established that the microenvironment of the tumour substantially contributes to EV release. EVIC will thus investigate this, in efforts to prevent metastasis and drug-resistance. But not all EVs are bad! We have successfully isolated EVs from normal mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with potential as drug/miRNA delivery vehicles. This will be further explored.
Standard Duties and Responsibilities of the Post
- Conduct a specified programme of research under the direction and mentorship of Prof.
O’Driscoll - Deliver research outputs and provide input into reports as required for the project
management schedule - Assist in identifying and developing future research and funding initiatives
- Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research in which s/he is engaged, with
the support of and under the supervision of Prof. O’Driscoll
Funding source: The funding for this project entitled Extracellular Vesicles in Cancer (EVIC) was
awarded to Prof O’Driscoll as an Irish Research Council Advanced Laurate (IRCAL).
Person Specification: The Post-Doctoral Fellow appointed to this post will conduct cellular and
molecular research related to EVIC, assist with the day-to-day running of this project, assist with
supervising the research of two PhD students, assist with preparing timely reports for IRC and
other appropriate forms of dissemination from this study.
Qualifications: The candidate will hold a PhD in a pharmacology, bio-engineering, biotechnology, biochemistry, immunology, molecular biology, biotechnology or pharmacy.
Knowledge & Experience (Essential)
Cancer research
Mammalian cell culture
Working with extracellular vesicles
Basic laboratory techniques such as immunoblotting, qPCR, ELISAs
Data analysis
Knowledge & Experience (Desirable)
Hypoxia, pre-clinical in vivo studies, drug delivery, working with plasma samples, confocal
microscopy, flow cytometry, proteomics, next-generation sequencing,
strong publication record, consistent with career stage
Skills &Competencies
– well organised, able to maintain overview and excellent planning and organisational skills
results- and solution-oriented
– excellent scientific writing and spoken (in English) skills
– proactive, enthusiastic, motivated, flexible and problem-solving attitude
– proven excellent communication skills
– able to work independently and as a member of a team
– good computer/IT skills
Application Procedure
Applicants should submit (i) a Cover Letter outlining your suitability for this position and
(ii) a full Curriculum Vitae including the names and contact details of 3 referees (including email addresses), to:- Prof. Lorraine O’Driscoll – lodrisc@tcd.ie
Ensure to use EV-Hypoxia Post-Doc. and your name in the email “Subject” box