To advertise your Job Opportunities on the BNA website, please log in and click the link above.
Postdoctoral Fellow (Parkinson’s Disease Computational Research)
Closing Date: 28 Feb 2025 Address: RCSI, St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, Ireland Duration: Fulltime, contract for up to 23 months. Summary of Post: We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled post-doctoral researcher with a strong computational background in spatial/single-cell multi-omics, multiplex fluorescence imaging, associated bioinformatics techniques, and complementary systems modelling. The ideal candidate should be capable of independently designing and executing computational research while collaborating within a multidisciplinary team. Parkinson’s Disease is the fastest growing neurodegenerative condition worldwide, yet the gold-standard treatment has remained largely unchanged for the last 50 years. The disease is characterised by the progressive degeneration of specific neuronal populations, such as dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Another key pathological hallmark is the presence of intraneuronal protein aggregates, with α-synuclein as a central component. Despite significant research efforts, we still lack a complete understanding of molecular mechanisms driving cell type-selective vulnerability in Parkinson’s. This post offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at transforming our understanding of Parkinson’s. The JPND-funded 4DPD-Omics consortium is an international collaboration of experts in α-Synuclein biochemistry, neuroanatomy, neuropathology, disease modelling, spatial and single-cell omics, bioinformatics, and systems biology. This multidisciplinary initiative aims to perform a comprehensive spatiotemporal analysis of neuronal and non-neuronal responses to α-synuclein pathology in Parkinson’s. The consortium has already generated extensive bulk transcriptomics and proteomics datasets from preclinical models and human post-mortem samples with α-Syn pathology. Through bioinformatics and functional investigations, key mechanisms such as mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic rewiring, mitophagy/autophagy defects, proinflammatory processes, and synaptic vesicle trafficking alterations have been identified. However, critical questions remain regarding the specific cell types involved, temporal dynamics of these processes, and the signalling pathways driving these changes. The project will utilise well-characterized preclinical models and clinically annotated human post-mortem samples spanning Braak stages 0-VI. Advanced spatial transcriptomics, mass spectrometry, and CellDIVE multiplexing platforms will be employed to map whole transcriptome and proteome changes at spatial and single-cell resolution over time. These analyses will create a 4D dynamic atlas of cellular vulnerability and resilience, offering unparalleled insights into the molecular landscapes of Parkinson’s progression. Key objectives include:
Correlating cellular transcriptome/proteome changes with α-Syn pathology progression. Identifying biomarkers, pathways, and master regulators in susceptible and resistant cell subtypes. Validating findings in clinical samples using high-resolution multiplexing approaches, enabling single-cell profiling of ±10,000 cells in tissue sections. Systematically investigating disease pathways in the context of cell-type-specific responses using systems biology and genome-scale modelling. The findings aim to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets, paving the way for innovative drug development strategies. This position offers the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and collaborate with world-leading experts in the Parkinson’s field. The successful candidate will contribute to the generation and integration of unprecedented datasets while advancing our understanding of cell type-selective vulnerability and disease mechanisms in Parkinson’s. Specific Duties:
Conduct research and contribute to the JPND-funded 4DPD-Omics programme focusing on spatial/single-cell multi-omics data analyses, systems modelling, and spatial imaging data analysis. Analyse and integrate multi-omic datasets (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) from pre-clinical and cellular models of Parkinson’s and from human post-mortem tissue. Perform spatial and single-cell transcriptomics/proteomics data analyses. Develop and analyse systems models of critical signalling pathways, including genome-scale metabolic models (GSMMs) or similar. Conduct analysis of spatial tissue fluorescence imaging data. Translate findings into impactful, actionable results. Communicate results through scientific publications, presentations at conferences, and within the 4DPD-Omics network. Collaborate with and support other researchers within the team as needed. Comply with statutory legislation, RCSI, and department rules to maintain personal and workplace welfare and safety. Undergo training and professional development activities as required. Represent the best interests of the Department and RCSI at all times. Perform other duties as may be required from time to time. Qualifications – (Essential):
The candidate should have a PhD (or submitted PhD thesis) in Computational/Systems Biology, Bioinformatics or a closely-related discipline. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R (or similar). Demonstrated analytical skills, with a proven ability to manage and interpret large-scale omics datasets. Knowledge & Experience – (Essential):
A strong track record of impactful research, evidenced by high-quality publications. Experience with multi-omics data analyses (spatial or single-cell experience desirable) and integration. An understanding of the field of Parkinson’s Disease or related neurodegenerative conditions. Excellent writing, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Strong attention to detail, thoroughness and organisational skills, and ability to work to deadlines. A collaborative mindset, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a dynamic research environment. Knowledge & Experience (Desirable):
Familiarity with systems biology techniques such as GSMMs or similar approaches. Experience in spatial image analysis. Knowledge of bioenergetics/metabolism. Curiosity and passion for advancing human health through science. Application Process: Please apply online through the RCSI careers portal before the closing date with your CV and cover letter detailing your applicable experience and motivation for applying for this role. Further Information
RCSI is a community of academic, research, clinical and professional staff working collaboratively to lead the world to better health. Here, you will thrive in an innovative and inclusive atmosphere and your personal development and wellbeing will be supported. We invite you to join us to help deliver on our exciting mission “To educate, nurture and discover for the benefit of human health”. Innovating for a Healthier Future 2023-2027 is RCSI’s new five-year strategic plan. Through it, RCSI will enhance human health by meeting the health workforce needs of society, creating the insights and inventions that drive health improvements, and working in partnership with patients and the public in support of better health and well-being for all. The strategy unites the RCSI community in supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals – with a particular focus on Goal 3, which targets good health and well-being. For each of the last six years, RCSI has been positioned in the Top 300 of universities worldwide in the Times Higher World University Rankings. We are proud that RCSI ranks fifth in the world for “Good Health and Well-being” in the Times Higher Education #SDG #SDG Impact Rankings 2024. Informal Enquiries can be directed to Niamh Connolly: niamhmconnolly@rcsi.com. Please note we do not accept CVs directly.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Closing Date: 28 Feb 2025 Address: RCSI, St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, Ireland Duration: Fulltime, contract for up to 23 months. Summary of Post: We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled post-doctoral researcher with a strong computational background in spatial/single-cell multi-omics, multiplex fluorescence imaging, associated bioinformatics techniques, and complementary systems modelling. The ideal candidate should be capable of independently designing and executing computational research while collaborating within a multidisciplinary team. Parkinson’s Disease is the fastest growing neurodegenerative condition worldwide, yet the gold-standard treatment has remained largely unchanged for the last 50 years. The disease is characterised by the progressive degeneration of specific neuronal populations, such as dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Another key pathological hallmark is the presence of intraneuronal protein aggregates, with α-synuclein as a central component. Despite significant research efforts, we still lack a complete understanding of molecular mechanisms driving cell type-selective vulnerability in Parkinson’s. This post offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at transforming our understanding of Parkinson’s. The JPND-funded 4DPD-Omics consortium is an international collaboration of experts in α-Synuclein biochemistry, neuroanatomy, neuropathology, disease modelling, spatial and single-cell omics, bioinformatics, and systems biology. This multidisciplinary initiative aims to perform a comprehensive spatiotemporal analysis of neuronal and non-neuronal responses to α-synuclein pathology in Parkinson’s. The consortium has already generated extensive bulk transcriptomics and proteomics datasets from preclinical models and human post-mortem samples with α-Syn pathology. Through bioinformatics and functional investigations, key mechanisms such as mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic rewiring, mitophagy/autophagy defects, proinflammatory processes, and synaptic vesicle trafficking alterations have been identified. However, critical questions remain regarding the specific cell types involved, temporal dynamics of these processes, and the signalling pathways driving these changes. The project will utilise well-characterized preclinical models and clinically annotated human post-mortem samples spanning Braak stages 0-VI. Advanced spatial transcriptomics, mass spectrometry, and CellDIVE multiplexing platforms will be employed to map whole transcriptome and proteome changes at spatial and single-cell resolution over time. These analyses will create a 4D dynamic atlas of cellular vulnerability and resilience, offering unparalleled insights into the molecular landscapes of Parkinson’s progression. Key objectives include:
Correlating cellular transcriptome/proteome changes with α-Syn pathology progression. Identifying biomarkers, pathways, and master regulators in susceptible and resistant cell subtypes. Validating findings in clinical samples using high-resolution multiplexing approaches, enabling single-cell profiling of ±10,000 cells in tissue sections. Systematically investigating disease pathways in the context of cell-type-specific responses using systems biology and genome-scale modelling. The findings aim to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets, paving the way for innovative drug development strategies. This position offers the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and collaborate with world-leading experts in the Parkinson’s field. The successful candidate will contribute to the generation and integration of unprecedented datasets while advancing our understanding of cell type-selective vulnerability and disease mechanisms in Parkinson’s. Specific Duties:
Conduct research and contribute to the JPND-funded 4DPD-Omics programme focusing on spatial/single-cell multi-omics data analyses, systems modelling, and spatial imaging data analysis. Analyse and integrate multi-omic datasets (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) from pre-clinical and cellular models of Parkinson’s and from human post-mortem tissue. Perform spatial and single-cell transcriptomics/proteomics data analyses. Develop and analyse systems models of critical signalling pathways, including genome-scale metabolic models (GSMMs) or similar. Conduct analysis of spatial tissue fluorescence imaging data. Translate findings into impactful, actionable results. Communicate results through scientific publications, presentations at conferences, and within the 4DPD-Omics network. Collaborate with and support other researchers within the team as needed. Comply with statutory legislation, RCSI, and department rules to maintain personal and workplace welfare and safety. Undergo training and professional development activities as required. Represent the best interests of the Department and RCSI at all times. Perform other duties as may be required from time to time. Qualifications – (Essential):
The candidate should have a PhD (or submitted PhD thesis) in Computational/Systems Biology, Bioinformatics or a closely-related discipline. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R (or similar). Demonstrated analytical skills, with a proven ability to manage and interpret large-scale omics datasets. Knowledge & Experience – (Essential):
A strong track record of impactful research, evidenced by high-quality publications. Experience with multi-omics data analyses (spatial or single-cell experience desirable) and integration. An understanding of the field of Parkinson’s Disease or related neurodegenerative conditions. Excellent writing, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Strong attention to detail, thoroughness and organisational skills, and ability to work to deadlines. A collaborative mindset, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a dynamic research environment. Knowledge & Experience (Desirable):
Familiarity with systems biology techniques such as GSMMs or similar approaches. Experience in spatial image analysis. Knowledge of bioenergetics/metabolism. Curiosity and passion for advancing human health through science. Application Process: Please apply online through the RCSI careers portal before the closing date with your CV and cover letter detailing your applicable experience and motivation for applying for this role. Further Information
RCSI is a community of academic, research, clinical and professional staff working collaboratively to lead the world to better health. Here, you will thrive in an innovative and inclusive atmosphere and your personal development and wellbeing will be supported. We invite you to join us to help deliver on our exciting mission “To educate, nurture and discover for the benefit of human health”. Innovating for a Healthier Future 2023-2027 is RCSI’s new five-year strategic plan. Through it, RCSI will enhance human health by meeting the health workforce needs of society, creating the insights and inventions that drive health improvements, and working in partnership with patients and the public in support of better health and well-being for all. The strategy unites the RCSI community in supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals – with a particular focus on Goal 3, which targets good health and well-being. For each of the last six years, RCSI has been positioned in the Top 300 of universities worldwide in the Times Higher World University Rankings. We are proud that RCSI ranks fifth in the world for “Good Health and Well-being” in the Times Higher Education #SDG #SDG Impact Rankings 2024. Informal Enquiries can be directed to Niamh Connolly: niamhmconnolly@rcsi.com. Please note we do not accept CVs directly.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
