Postdoctoral Fellow

Postdoctoral Fellow (Parkinson’s Disease Experimental Research)

Closing Date: 28 Feb 2025
Address: RCSI, St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
Duration: Fulltime, contract for up to 23 months

Summary of Post:
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled post-doctoral researcher with a strong experimental background in spatial/single-cell multi-omics, multiplex fluorescence imaging, associated bioinformatics techniques, and complementary systems modelling. The ideal candidate should be capable of independently designing and executing experimental research while collaborating within a multidisciplinary team.

Parkinson’s Disease is the fastest growing neurodegenerative condition worldwide, yet the gold standard treatment has remained largely unchanged for the last 50 years. The disease is characterised by the progressive degeneration of specific neuronal populations, such as dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. This post offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at transforming our understanding of Parkinson’s.

The JPND-funded 4DPD-Omics consortium is an international collaboration of experts in α-Synuclein biochemistry, neuroanatomy, neuropathology, disease modelling, spatial and single-cell omics, bioinformatics, and systems biology. The project will utilise well-characterized preclinical models and clinically annotated human postmortem samples spanning Braak stages 0-VI. Key objectives include:

1. Correlating cellular transcriptome/proteome changes with α-Syn pathology progression.
2. Identifying biomarkers, pathways, and master regulators in susceptible and resistant cell subtypes.
3. Validating findings in clinical samples using high-resolution multiplexing approaches.
4. Systematically investigating disease pathways in the context of cell-type-specific responses.

Responsibilities:
• Prepare and process tissue slices from pre-clinical models and human post mortem samples for spatial/single-cell transcriptomic/proteomic analyses and multiplex fluorescence imaging.
• Lead high-throughput spatial transcriptomics studies using the GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler.
• Implement and optimise spatial single-cell transcriptomics/proteomics techniques.
• Perform multiplexed immunofluorescence imaging (MxIF) and CellDIVE hyperplexing.
• Analyse spatial transcriptomics and proteomics datasets.
• Collaborate closely with RCSI researchers and external partners.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and maintain meticulous experimental records.
• Communicate results through scientific publications and presentations.
• Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines for animal research and handling of human tissue samples.
• Undergo training and professional development activities as required.

Qualifications – (Essential):
• PhD (or submitted PhD thesis) in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology or related discipline, ideally in the field of neuroscience.
• Demonstrated expertise in spatial transcriptomics, single-cell RNA sequencing, or similar advanced molecular techniques.

Knowledge & Experience – (Essential):
• Demonstrated expertise in high-throughput spatial transcriptomics experiments.
• Proficiency in high-resolution molecular imaging techniques.
• Experience with tissue processing for advanced molecular analysis.
• A strong track record of impactful research, evidenced by high-quality publications.

Application Process:
Please apply online through the RCSI careers portal before the closing date with your CV and cover letter detailing your applicable experience and motivation for applying for this role.

Further Information

RCSI is a community of academic, research, clinical and professional staff working collaboratively to lead the world to better health. We invite you to join us to help deliver on our exciting mission “To educate, nurture and discover for the benefit of human health”.

Informal Enquiries can be directed to Niamh Connolly: niamhmconnolly@rcsi.com. Please note we do not accept CVs directly.

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