Postdoctoral Research Associate

KCL Centre for Gene Therapy & Regenerative Medicine (CGTRM) is a premier research institution for the study of tissue regeneration with next-generation cellular and genetic therapeutics. Within the Centre, the Lieberam group investigates nerve muscle connectivity and disease that affect neuromuscular circuits, using human iPSC-based tissue culture models as their primary experimental system.

Together with the groups of Prof Juan Burrone (KCL), Prof Pietro Fratta (UCL), Prof Mala Shah (UCL) and Prof Wenhui Song (KCL), we are developing a human iPSC-based model of neuromuscular circuits. Our aim is to uncover the disease mechanisms underlying Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD).

This role is for a qualified and experienced scientist who has been working in an academic or commercial research laboratory/company related to the differentiation of human iPSC into different cell lineages, the assembly of complex tissue culture models from these cellular elements, and the study of abnormal neuronal activity in neurons with ALS/FTD-linked genotypes. The cells used in this experimental system will be genetically modified such that activity can be controlled optogenetically. We will study these circuits by immunocytochemistry, electrophysiology and live cells imaging, in close collaboration with members of the partner groups at KCL and UCL. The aim of the project is to investigate the role of hyperexcitation and synaptic defects in ALS/FTD, and to test potential therapeutics that stop or reverse the disease process. 

The post holder will contribute to the plan to deliver technical innovation and lead specified work packages developing the experimental plan with Dr Lieberam and other members of the team, and allocating resources to the tasks within the plan. To ensure successful development of the cellular model and progress towards understanding insulin resistance, the candidate requires a strong background/knowledge of human iPSC culture, in vitro differentiation, electrophysiology, and imaging technology, such as confocal microscopy. In addition, they also require excellent interpersonal skills to work within and across a diverse and interdisciplinary team. 

The post holder will be jointly supervised by Dr Ivo Lieberam (CGTRM, KCL) and Prof Juan Burrone (CDN, KCL) regarding their scientific work. The role will be based at the CGTRM, and Dr Lieberam will be the Line Manager.

This is a full time (35 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 28 February 2027.