Research assistant in long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), temporary position

Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research?

The research group

The adipocyte expresses over 4000 long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), many uniquely expressed in fat cells. However, how these polymeric molecules function in concert with the metabolic machinery of the cell is not well understood. In our laboratory, we investigate how lncRNAs adapt the adipocyte for specialised function, specifically in the context of lipid droplet metabolism. Our investigation focuses on lncRNAs that may underline compromised metabolic flexibility and contribute to cardiometabolic disease pathogenesis.

We integrate findings from well-characterized human white adipose tissue (WAT) biopsies and large population genetics to identify lncRNAs implicated in lipid metabolism and cardiometabolic disease. The disease-associated lncRNAs are investigated in human adipocyte cell models and using CRISPRi/a gene perturbation coupled to lipidomic/metabolomics, we aim to understand the effect of the lncRNA expression on adipocyte metabolism. In addition, we use gene variant editing in human adipocytes to understand how single nucleotide polymorphisms located in lncRNA gene loci lead to alterations in lipid droplet metabolism.

The research project and the duties of the research assistant

This project will explore how lncRNAs regulate fat cell lipid storage and breakdown and in turn type-2 diabetes pathogenesis. The candidate will use omics and white adipose tissue clinical phenotype data to uncover novel lncRNAs associated to defects in adipocyte lipid metabolism and cardiometabolic disease. The research assistant will progress these lncRNAs into molecular studies in human adipocytes, where they will use advanced molecular gene perturbation systems and in-house developed molecular methodology to uncover how these lncRNAs function at a molecular resolution.

The research assistant will be trained in how to examine clinical data to identify candidate lncRNAs and develop an investigational pipeline to understand how they function. The research assistant will be involved in learning from current lab members and teaching future lab members that will be hired.

The aim of the research assistant position is to equip the hired candidate with the dry and wet lab skills necessary to take on a PhD in the current laboratory. All funding for the PhD is acquired.  

Your profile

Skills and personal qualities

Required

• The chosen candidate will have completed a Master’s degree in biology/Cell Biology/Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Bioinformatics or another related subject.
• A good knowledge of cell biology.
• Clear communication and documentation skills to be able to explain and replicate research findings. 
• An ability to work independently.
• Good knowledge in English, written and spoken.

Desirable

• Experience in molecular biology techniques including immunoprecipitation, RNA pulldown, protein-protein/protein-RNA interaction studies is highly advantageous.
• Experience in omic data analysis is highly advantageous
• Experience in microscopy

What do we offer?

A creative and inspiring environment with wide-ranging expertise and interests. Karolinska Institutet is one of the world's leading medical universities. Our vision is to pursue the development of knowledge about life and to promote a better health for all. At Karolinska Institutet, we conduct successful medical research and hold the largest range of medical education in Sweden. Karolinska Institutet is also a state university, which entitles you to several good benefits through our collective agreement. And you get to practice freely in our modern wellness facilities, where trained staff are on site.

Location: Flemingsberg

 Choose to work at KI – Ten reasons why

Long noncoding RNA in the adipocyte – Alastair Kerr Research Group | Karolinska Institutet

Application

Welcome to apply at the latest 2024-11-30.

Submit your application and supporting documents through the Varbi recruitment system. Use the button in the top right corner and follow the instructions. We prefer that your application is written in English, but you can also apply in Swedish.

Your application must contain the following documents:

• A personal statement letter for why you have applied for the position and a curriculum vitae
• Degree projects and previous publications, if any
• Any other documentation showing the desirable skills and personal qualities described above

Want to make a difference? Join us and contribute to better health for all