Senior Research Fellow (Part Time)

Senior Research Fellow (Part Time)

Novel Therapeutic Approaches To Improve Corneal Allograft Survival By Cell And Gene Therapy And Insights Into The Mechanism Of Action

School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences

Ref. No. NUIG-073-15

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a part-time (1.5 days/week) fixed term position as a Senior Research Fellow, School of Medicine at the National University of Ireland, Galway. This position is funded by Science Foundation Ireland and is available from 1stAugust 2015.

The Project

This project addresses a key clinically relevant question, namely how corneal allograft survival can be improved by novel cell-and gene-therapeutic approaches. Research using a corneal transplant model in which key observations have been made by us, will continue to strengthen the path of this research for the translation towards clinical trial. In addition, for an in-depth understanding of the mechanisms involved in Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC)-mediated immunosuppression and Programmed Death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1)-induced immunomodulation, a corneal transplant model will be established to capitalise on the availability of transgenic/knock-out models.

Job Description

The main responsibility of the postholder will be to perform pre-clinical experiments for this project. In particular, the candidate will be responsible for performing the corneal transplant procedure in rodents. This includes the securing of donor cornea, transplantation of donor cornea in suitable recipients and follow-up monitoring of graft quality in transplanted animals. An experienced researcher is requested to ensure the successful completion of the project milestones and deliverables within the grant timeframe.

Qualifications:

Applicants must have a degree in medicine, preferably in ophthalmology. The candidate will require a prior knowledge of corneal transplantation in rodents and must be competent with small animal models. Prior experience with small animal surgery and maintenance is essential. Candidates should have excellent communication and organizational skills; be highly motivated and passionate about transplant immunology research leading to a clinical trial and have a substantial publication output.

Salary: €65,000 fixed,per annum (pro rata, 1.5 days/week)

Start date: Position is available from August 2015

Further information about REMEDI is available at

Informal enquiries concerning the post may be made to Dr. Thomas

To Apply:

Applications to include a covering letter, CV,and the contact details of three referees should be sent, via e-mail (in word or PDF only)

Please put reference number NUIG-073-15 in subject line of e-mail application.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00 pm on Friday 26thJune2015

National University of Ireland, Galway is an equal opportunity employer.