Research Associate

About the role

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our group to work on projects related to the study of the subcellular signal organisation of the glucagon receptor family (GLP-1R, GCGR, GIPR), using state-of-the-art high-throughput screening techniques, high-resolution microscopy, and targeted biosensor approaches, as well as in vivo transgenic mouse models.

What you would be doing

You will join a vibrant research group where you will help elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing the subcellular organisation of signalling of the glucagon receptor family of class B1 GPCRs in pancreatic islets and other metabolically relevant cell types (hepatocytes, adipocytes, etc).

Ongoing projects in our lab include:

• Tissue selectivity of GLP-1R responses.
• Islet endocrine cell subtype-specific GLP-1R / GIPR signalling profiles.
• Glucagon receptor family missense gene variant characterisation, including development of humanised knock-in mouse models.
• Functional validation of glucagon receptor family lipid binding sites.
• Cell type-specific glucagon receptor family protein-protein interactions.
• Control of mitochondrial and lipid droplet function by the glucagon receptor family: role of inter-organelle membrane contact sites.
• Control of GLP-1R trafficking and signalling by SUMOylation/deSUMOylation.
• Role of GIPR in the control of futile calcium cycling in adipocytes.

You will employ molecular cell biology techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, high-resolution/super-resolution fluorescence and electron microscopy, multi-omic and high-throughput screening approaches, pharmacology methods, and cell type-specific/subcellular biosensor-based assays to characterise receptor signalling outputs from cell lines and primary cells/islets, as well as in vivo analysis of glucose handling in transgenic mice and/or mouse models of diet-induced diabetes.

Please visit the following link for further information about our lab:

https://www.imperial.ac.uk/medicine/research-and-impact/groups/signalling-and-trafficking-of-receptors-in-metabolism-laboratory/

What we are looking for

• PhD in molecular cell biology, or a related subject
• Previous experience in GPCR signalling
• Previous experience in high-resolution microscopy, molecular pharmacology and/or in vivo mouse modelling
• Previous experience in pancreatic beta cell and islet biology

What we can offer you

• Full time, fixed term contract (24 months)
• Possible hybrid working (min 60% on site)
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity

• Benefit from sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes)
• Get access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day 1, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities and a cycle-to-work scheme
• Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for travel
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources designed to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further information

This is a full time role, based at our Hammersmith Campus.

If you require any further details on the role please contact:

Dr Alejandra Tomas (a.tomas-catala@imperial.ac.uk)

https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/a.tomas-catala

Available documents

• Download: Employee Benefits Booklet.Pdf
• Download: Job Description Research Associate MED04975.Pdf

Apply now