Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed term)

Biosciences, Animal Sciences

Applications are invited for the above post to work on a large NIEHS (USA) funded project. The position is for up to 15 months in the first instance but could be extended by up to 5 years subject to renewal of funding. The successful candidate will join a multi-national team of scientists from the UK and USA who are investigating the trans-generational consequences (both epigenetic and physiological) of in utero exposure to environmental chemicals (ECs) on metabolic health and reproductive function of offspring. The successful candidate will be based at the University of Nottingham (UK), but will collaborate with colleagues at the Universities of Glasgow (UK) and Michigan (USA).

The project utilises an established sheep model and addresses three specific aims. These are the effects of EC exposure on (i) metabolic health, (ii) reproductive function and (iii) epigenetic mechanisms underpinning transgenerational modifications to metabolic health and reproductive function. The successful candidate will lead on Specific Aim III (i.e., epigenetic mechanisms), but will assist with reproductive analyses included in Specific Aim II (eg testis histology, sperm viability, in vitro fertilisation and embryology). Applicants must have (or be close to completion of) a PhD in Developmental or Reproductive Biology/Genetics, Bioinformatics or a related discipline.

Evidence of use of state-of-the-art molecular (eg epigenomics, RNAseq) techniques and associated bioinformatics is essential. Experience in cell/embryo culture, histology and/or semen evaluation are also desirable.

This full-time (36.25 hours) post is available from 1st September 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter and will be offered on a fixed-term contract to 30th November 2024. Job share arrangements may be considered. The applicant will be based at the University of Nottingham, but willingness to travel within the UK to work with collaborators in Glasgow, and to spend short study periods with our partner at Michigan University in the USA, is desirable.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof Kevin Sinclair (kevin.sinclair@nottingham.ac.uk) or Prof Richard Lea (richard.lea@nottingham.ac.uk)

Please note that applications sent directly to these email addresses will not be accepted.