Research Assistant

This is an exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant to join a project exploring muscle-targeted lipid nanoparticles for non-viral gene therapy in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Working closely with the Principal Investigator and a translational collaborator at the Royal Veterinary College, you will contribute to the development and testing of lipid nanoparticles designed to deliver therapeutic genes to muscle cells.

You will formulate and characterise lipid nanoparticles for plasmid DNA delivery; undertake cell culture and transfection experiments using muscle cell models, reporter genes and full-length dystrophin constructs; and analyse experimental data to produce high-quality graphs, figures and summaries for research meetings, reports, presentations and publications.

This is an excellent opportunity to strengthen your expertise in advanced non-viral gene delivery, lipid nanoparticle manufacturing and functional validation, while developing your understanding of emerging gene therapy approaches for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

As part of the University's ongoing commitment to redeployment, this vacancy may be withdrawn at any stage of the recruitment process if a suitable redeployee is identified. While external applications are welcomed, any internal applicants will be prioritised.

About You

As Research Assistant you will have a relevant degree and postgraduate qualification with research experience, alongside practical experience of mammalian cell culture and functional assays in cultured cells. You will also have experience of preparing and handling lipid-based nanoparticle formulations and characterising nanoparticles or similar vectors using techniques such as dynamic light scattering and encapsulation efficiency measurements. A thorough understanding of gene delivery, non-viral vectors, or related techniques would be advantageous.

You will be confident analysing scientific data, communicating findings clearly and maintaining accurate laboratory and research records. You will be comfortable using relevant data-processing and analysis software and engaging with current scientific literature.

You will be organised, reliable and able to use your initiative, while also enjoying collaborative research. Strong written and verbal communication skills, a commitment to research integrity and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively will be central to your success in the role.

Rewards & Benefits

A minimum of 36 days annual leave per annum, pro rata (inclusive of bank holiday and University closure days). Discounted membership to our onsite state-of-the-art sport and leisure facilities. Staff benefits scheme providing discounts across the high street, supermarket shopping, cinema tickets, dining out and more. Employee assistance programme with access to free confidential counselling sessions, legal & financial advice, and health & wellbeing resources. A wide range of development programmes to enhance your career. Beautiful award-winning on-campus working environment. Automatic enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme.