Postdoctoral Research Fellow (082719-R)

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Cardiovascular Biology

Duration: 12 months

Start date: Available immediately

A Postdoctoral Fellow position is available in the group of Professor John McVey (www.themcveylab.com)  to characterise expression of tissue factor (TF) using a TF-green fluorescent protein knock-in mouse in a project sponsored by the British Heart Foundation.

Blood clotting is a fundamental defence mechanism that is initiated when blood is exposed to cells expressing a receptor called tissue factor (TF). The distribution of TF expression at biological boundary layers led to the proposal that it functions as a 'haemostatic envelope'. Cells within blood do not normally express TF; however induced expression occurs in the pathogenesis of thrombosis in atherosclerosis, sepsis and cancer. Recently TF expression and the resulting generation of coagulation proteases have been linked to other defence mechanisms such as the immune system and inflammatory responses. The ability to visualise TF expression would contribute significantly to our understanding of these complex interactions. We generated a mouse expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) linked to TF. In this project, we will characterise TF-GFP expression generating a comprehensive map of TF expression. This will generate an invaluable tool for researchers in the field allowing fundamental questions regarding TF biology to be addressed.

Previous experience in immune-histochemical analysis and confocal microscopy is essential. Experience of working with RNA, qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis is a plus but not essential. We are seeking an enthusiastic scientist who has excellent communication skills and is a team player to help us deliver this initial feasibility project and generate preliminary data to support further funding applications.

Our laboratory is located at the beautiful campus of the University of Surrey, a top 10 UK University close to London. The Cardiovascular Section at the University of Surrey (https://www.surrey.ac.uk/school-biosciences-medicine/research/section-cardiovascular-sciences)is a multidisciplinary and collaborative section with a wide range of overarching disciplines and expertise with excellent facilities.  We also provide a generous benefits package including final salary pension scheme, relocation provision, and access to world-class leisure facilities.

Informal enquiries should be addressed to Professor John H. McVey(j.mcvey@surrey.ac.uk).

To apply please complete the application process, ensuring you include a cover letter, CV and the names of at least two references. .

We acknowledge, understand and embrace diversity.

Closing Date: 12 Dec 2019
Category: Research & Teaching