Research Associate in Human Genetics - Strand, London, WC2R 2LS

Research Associate in Human Genetics - Strand, London, WC2R 2LS

About Us

The post will be based in the research group of Professor Michael Simpson a multidisciplinary team with expertise in genetics, genomics, immunology and dermatology. The group is co-located in the Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics and the St John's Institute of Dermatology at King's College London at the Guy's Campus in London Bridge.

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate with a strong background in statistical genetics and/or computational biology to join our team.

The successful applicant will contribute to a cutting-edge research programme which aims to understand the genetic and molecular mechanisms of complex inflammatory skin diseases. The applicant will develop and MRF funded project looking at the psychological co-morbidities of acne, with opportunities to develop the project depending on their expertise, development needs, and interest.

An estimated 20–25% of the population is affected by inflammatory skin diseases, the most common of which include eczema, psoriasis and acne. Easing the burden of these diseases warrants attention owing to their high prevalence, visibility, psychosocial impact, need for long-term treatment and associated costs. Inter-individual variability in response and tolerability of existing treatments further adds to the already substantial impact on quality of life and underlines the need for improved knowledge on pathogenic mechanisms to inform novel drug targets for inflammatory skin diseases.

Over the last 10 years our team has led the identification of the genetic variation that contributes to susceptibility and severity of inflammatory skin diseases and the biological mechanisms through which they operate. We have established collaborations across the globe and built a research programme that leverages high throughput, high-resolution sequencing platforms and novel analytical methods.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in statistical genetics and epidemiology or a related field with a proven track record in the analysis of large biological datasets.

They are expected to be able to work effectively as part of a team but also to direct research independently as required. This post represents an exceptional opportunity for career development within a highly supportive environment for both early- and mid-career researchers.

This is a full time post (35 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract for 2 years.

Research staff at King’s are entitled to at least 10 days per year (pro-rata) for professional development. This entitlement, from the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers , applies to Postdocs, Research Assistants, Research and Teaching Technicians, Teaching Fellows and AEP equivalent up to and including grade 7. Visit the Centre for Research Staff Development for more information.