Gene regulation in human development

A PhD project studying gene regulation in human organoids is available in the laboratory of Dr. Fiona Wardle (https://www.kcl.ac.uk/research/wardle-group) in the Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London.

Our laboratory focusses on the networks of gene regulation that control cell fate decisions during early development of the vertebrate embryo. We use a combination of approaches to study gene regulation including cell biology, molecular biology, genomics, and computational biology in a variety of systems including zebrafish and mammalian stem cells and are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic candidate with a background in stem cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and/or developmental biology for this project. There is currently no funding attached to this PhD position – see Funding notes below.

Project: This project aims to characterise genomic cis-regulatory elements responsible for regulating gene expression in human models of early development and organ formation. Other models of development, such as zebrafish, will also be used to test conservation of function. The selected candidate will gain experience in stem cell and organoid culture, genome editing (CRISPR/Cas9), molecular biology, developmental biology, microscopy and bioinformatics.

To find out more about this project, please send a CV and statement of interest to Dr. Fiona Wardle (fiona.wardle@kcl.ac.uk). Should candidates be interested in other projects in the laboratory (see: www.kcl.ac.uk/research/profile/wardle-group) please feel free to contact Dr Fiona Wardle for informal discussion of these.

Environment: The successful applicant will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary lab, within one of the world’s top research universities. Our laboratory is part of the vibrant Randall Centre at the Guy’s Campus of King’s College London, which has numerous researchers using genomics, microscopy, biophysics and computational biology to investigate cell, developmental and structural biology. In addition, we have collaborations with researchers across the University using stem cell biology and organoid culture. The candidate will gain exposure to numerous techniques and model systems. Methods training and opportunities for career development activities, such as presentation and writing skills are also provided (see: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/doctoral-experience/health-researcher/health-sciences-doctoral-training-centre).  

Eligibility: Prospective candidates should have a Master’s level qualification and a BSc with a 1st or 2:1 (equivalent) grade in a biology-related programme, and research experience. In addition, the candidate must have a demonstrated interest in gene regulation, stem cell biology and/or developmental biology through their degree programme or research experience. Applicants are also required to meet King’s English language requirements. Please see here for more information: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/areas/basic-medical-biosciences-research