Research Assistant in Experimental Pulmonary Hypertension

About the role

We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant to join a British Heart Foundation (BHF)-funded project investigating how the complement system contributes to pulmonary arterial hypertension. Based within the Vascular Sciences Section of the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial College London, you will work on an exciting translational research programme combining animal models, primary cell culture, molecular biology and omics approaches to understand disease mechanisms and identify new therapeutic opportunities for patients.

What you would be doing

Working closely with researchers, clinicians and collaborators, you will:

• Perform a range of laboratory techniques including primary cell culture, RT-qPCR, ELISA, western blotting and immunostaining.
• Support performing and monitoring animal models of pulmonary vascular disease.
• Generate, analyse and interpret experimental data and maintain accurate research records.
• Contribute to the day-to-day operation of the research laboratory.
• Participate in research group meetings and assist the preparation of publications and reports.
• Work alongside leading researchers in pulmonary vascular biology, cardiovascular disease and complement biology.

What we are looking for

• A BSc or MSc in Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences or a related discipline.
• Experience working within a research laboratory environment.
• Experience of molecular and cellular biology techniques including cell culture and common laboratory assays such as qPCR, ELISA, western blotting and immunostaining.
• Knowledge of cardiovascular, vascular or inflammatory disease biology.
• Strong communication and organisational skills, and ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Desirable:

• Experience with animal models of disease.
• Experience in cardiovascular biology or pulmonary vascular disease research.
• Knowledge of complement biology.
• Experience with microscopy.

What we can offer you

• Working on a British Heart Foundation-funded project with clear clinical relevance.
• Training in a broad range of in vivo and in vitro experimental techniques.
• Collaboration with internationally recognised experts in pulmonary hypertension and complement research.
• Opportunities to contribute to high-impact publications and scientific conferences.
• A collaborative and supportive research environment.

Further information

This is a full-time (35 h/w) post on a fixed-term contract for three years.

The successful candidate will join the Vascular Sciences Section within the National Heart and Lung Institute and work closely with Professor Allan Lawrie, Professor Martin Wilkins, Professor Matthew Pickering and collaborators across academia and industry

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Dr Merve Keles – m.keles@imperial.ac.uk.