Oxford Centre for Gene Function
Parks Road

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research scientist, to work with a team working with Professor Kay Davies on a research programme on the development of an effective therapy for the neuromuscular disease Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) which is caused by the lack of the structural protein, dystrophin. Our approach is to modulate the expression of the dystrophin-related protein, utrophin, which we have shown in animal studies is able to compensate for dystrophin loss. We are using small molecules to increase the expression of utrophin and testing these in the mdx mouse model of the disease. This work is being carried out in collaboration with the Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford and the Oxford spin-out company, Summit Therapeutics (www.summitplc.com). Summit Therapeutics have taken one of these molecules into a Phase 2 trial in DMD patients. The programme is at a very exciting point in both the preclinical and clinical work.

The successful applicant will join the team validating hits in the mouse model of the disease. We are analysing how our positive hits alter the expression of utrophin using the analysis of the utrophin promoter region using the latest technologies such as ATAC seq, CHIPseq and RNA seq. The successful applicant will be expected to contribute to these studies whilst being introduced to our drug development more generally with Summit Therapeutics. Responsibilities will include managing his/her own academic research and administrative activities; testing hypotheses and analysing scientific data; collaborating in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles; and contributing ideas for new research projects.

You will have a doctoral degree (or equivalent) in a relevant area of research biology and a demonstrable interest in muscle biology. You will have relevant experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques, excellent organisational skills and the ability to keep meticulous records. You will be able to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team. Some experience working in the analysis of gene transcriptional control drug is desirable.

You will be based in the Oxford Centre for Gene Function, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PT.

The position is funded by the Summit Therapeutics, until 21 November 2019 in the first instance.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Wednesday 6 June 2018. Interviews are likely to be held the week beginning Monday 18 June 2018.

www.recruit.ox.ac.uk/pls/hrisliverecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=134825