We are seeking a highly talented and enthusiastic postdoctoral researcher to join the EV Biology Research Group, to support devel.....
We are seeking a highly talented and enthusiastic postdoctoral researcher to join the EV Biology Research Group, to support development of an Extracellular Vesicle (EV)-based platform for diagnosis of clinically significant prostate cancer. This is a full-time appointment on a fixed term contract for 6 months. The project is led by Dr Jason Webber (Swansea University Medical School) and is funded by the Medical Research Council – Impact Acceleration Account.
When diagnosing patients with prostate cancer (PCa), it is difficult to discriminate patients with slow growing tumours from those with clinically significant, aggressive, disease who require urgent treatment. Currently, doctors rely on tissue biopsy, which is an invasive procedure with potential for numerous complications. There remains an unmet need for a simple, non-invasive, assay for diagnosis of PCa. Recently, there has been much interest in the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as a source of biomarkers and we have developed several proof-of-concept assays highlighting the potential application of EVs in early detection of PCa.
The appointee will facilitate the development of a plate-based test to detect glycosaminoglycans present on the surface of EVs, to identify patients with clinically significant PCa. The project aims to refine the assay through development of standards and assessment of assay utility within a range of patient biofluids. This is a multidisciplinary project that involves collaboration with researchers at the Swansea Bay University Health Board, and the University of Turku.
Applicants should have a degree in a biomedical science subject and relevant laboratory experience. Applicants are required to have experimental research experience in a range of molecular biology techniques – this must include ELISAs/immunoaffinity assays. Evidence of conduct, interpretation and reporting of qualitative and quantitative research, as well as excellent organisational skills, are essential. Experience working with extracellular vesicles and/or clinical samples is of additional benefit.
The role provides an exciting opportunity to join Swansea University Medical School, one of the UK’s leading Medical Schools. Swansea University Medical School provides an interdisciplinary approach, educating and training the next generation of doctors, life scientists, and health professionals. It collaborates with the NHS, business and the third sector in a spirit of open innovation and has established itself as a world-class place to learn, research and innovate. The Medical School became the first department within the University to achieve an Equality Challenge Unit (ECU) Athena SWAN Charter Silver Award in 2015, and was re-awarded in 2019 in recognition of its commitment to equality. The University also holds the Athena SWAN Charter Silver Award. In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, 86% of research quality within the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science is world leading and internationally excellent.
The University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity in all of its practices and activities. We aim to establish an inclusive environment and welcome diverse applications from the following protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation.
We have an under-representation of men in the area of research and would particularly welcome applications from men for this position. We also have an under representation of individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds and would encourage applications from these groups. Appointments will always be made on merit.
Please note this job is also being advertised to a pool of colleagues internally as part of our University commitment to employee redeployment. Should this post be filled from this route then you will receive an email confirming this. If you do not receive an email, please assume that your application is still in process.
Applicants are asked to provide a completed online application providing evidence against the essential criteria in the recruitment documentation. Applicants should also attach to the application the following documents:
• Curriculum Vitae;
• Publication list;
• Statement detailing your research to date
Interviews planned for Tuesday 12th December
Informal enquiries are welcome and should be directed to Dr Jason Webber (j.p.webber@swansea.ac.uk).