Research Fellow in Air Pollution Toxicology at University of Southampton

We are seeking to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Faculty of Medicine to work within a group aiming to understand the effects of airborne particulate matter components on the respiratory epithelium, and how this might drive pulmonary fibrosis, with a focus on the effects and concentrations of metals.  The research will be led by Dr Matthew Loxham, (BBSRC David Phillips Fellow in Air Pollution Toxicology) with Dr Mark Jones (Associate Professor of Respiratory Medicine), Dr Lareb Dean (AXA Research Fund Fellow), and Prof Donna Davies (Professor of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology).

Working as part of a dynamic translational research team consisting of basic and clinical scientists, the successful candidate will be based in the Brooke Laboratory at University Hospital Southampton. The role will involve culture of cells (lines and primary) and tissue in a range of formats, including complex 3d models, particle and metal exposure experiments, and analysis of responses using molecular and cellular techniques including RNA-Seq, ELISA, RT-qPCR, reporter assays, and pharmacological/genetic manipulation of cells.  There will also be a significant component of work involving analysis of transcriptomic (RNA-Seq) data at the bulk and single cell levels.  It will also involve characterisation and integration of analytical geochemistry techniques (LA-TOF-ICP-MS, ICP-MS) to investigate intracellular metal concentrations.  There will also be a requirement for work in collaborators’ laboratories at other University campuses within Southampton.

This position requires a PhD (or imminent award of one) in cell and molecular biology, experience of cell culture, and at least some of the cellular/molecular techniques listed above.  Understanding and experience of bioinformatics analysis techniques for RNA-Seq (e.g. in R) is also essential.  Experience of at least one of lung cell biology, particle toxicology, and metal toxicology, is required.  Experience of analytical geochemistry techniques such as LA-TOF-ICP-MS and ICP-MS is essential, as is a demonstrable ability to work across disparate disciplines.

The ideal candidate will be able to adapt to working with a variety of techniques across different laboratories, working efficiently and diligently, with a strong work ethic, initiative, and enthusiasm, and the ability to work independently.  They will be team-oriented, with excellent organisational skills, and reliable.  The successful applicant must have excellent spoken and written English communication skills.

For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Matthew Loxham – m.loxham@soton.ac.uk

*Applications will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification.  The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon completion of PhD.  Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given. 

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