The Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit (MRC MBU), University of Cambridge wishes to appoint a post-doctoral Research Associate to join the research group of Prof. Michal Minczuk at the MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit.
A world-renowned centre for research, the MRC MBU is a vibrant community focused on the involvement of mitochondria and their dysfunction in an ever-increasing range of human diseases. Additional information can be found at www.mrc-mbu.cam.ac.uk. The postholder will contribute to a programme focused on mitochondrial genome editing models to find cures for mitochondrial diseases. Mammalian mitochondria contain multiple copies of their own genome (mtDNA), which encodes 13 essential subunits of the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system. Pathogenic variants in the mitochondrial genome can lead to mitochondrial diseases, a significant group of inherited conditions affecting about 1 in 5,000 individuals. These disorders currently lack effective treatments and are incurable, with diverse penetrance, presentation, and prognosis. This project aims to address this treatment gap.
The first objective of the project is to utilize recently developed methods for precise genome editing (such as DdCBE, TALED, ZFD, or mitoBE) to correct novel pre-clinical cellular and mouse models that mimic common molecular features of mtDNA disease. The second goal is to characterize the key molecular features of these corrected pre-clinical models. One approach involves using mitochondrial programmable nucleases and base editors to specifically reduce mutant mtDNA. We aim to reverse mitochondrial dysfunction phenotypes using single-cell genomics, proteomics, and specialised methods for assessing mitochondrial function.
The results of this project will provide proof of principle that mtDNA mutation correction through genome modification tools could offer a therapeutic pathway for mitochondrial diseases of varied genetic origins. The project will be carried out in collaboration with a mitochondrial patient support and community groups and an industrial partner, enhancing the potential for clinical translation and commercialisation of the technologies.
Candidates should have (or be nearing completion of) a PhD in a relevant subject and a record of related research achievements. Knowledge of in vivo gene delivery and experience with mitochondrial genome editing tools are essential.
Informal enquiries about this position should be directed to Professor Michal Minczuk (mam201@cam.ac.uk).
The University of Cambridge is committed, in its pursuit of academic and research excellence, to a pro-active and inclusive approach to equality, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups, promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity. The MBU is part of the School of Clinical Medicine, which holds an Athena Swan Silver Award and supports an Academic Women's Forum. The University particularly encourages women and candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds to apply.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 18 months in the first instance.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment and a security check.
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Applicants must have (or be close to obtaining) a PhD.
Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £34,132) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
Closing date: 3rd April 2025
Interview dates: To be confirmed
Please quote reference SM45458 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.