Group Leader – Oligo Biology Drug Development

Applications are invited for an outstanding scientist in oligonucleotide drug development, to act as a group leader under the direction of Professor Matthew Wood. This work will occur under the auspice of the recently awarded TransNAT grant from the MRC, with a focus on understanding how chemical modification and conjugation of therapeutic oligonucleotides can improve and alter their efficacy, tissue distribution, and sub-cellular compartmentalisation. This specific role will focus on understanding how the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of novel oligonucleotide constructs vary following administration in vivo. The successful applicant will work as lead of a dynamic team of post-doctoral molecular biologists and chemists to generate and evaluate novel oligonucleotide drugs in both small and large animal models, as well as in disease models.

The applicant will be responsible for leading funded high impact research programs focused on the development of oligonucleotide therapies and related novel drug delivery platforms to treat neuromuscular and neurological diseases. The applicant will be a career scientist from academia and/or an industry environment with knowledge of oligonucleotide drug pharmacology and chemical biology. The ideal candidate will additionally have sufficient chemical knowledge to allow for close collaboration with upstream synthetic chemists in designing improved oligonucleotide candidates, be able to lead and conduct independent research, and will be willing to collaborate widely including with industry.

This position is offered full-time on a fixed-term contract initially until 20 September 2025.

This role meets the criteria for a UK Skilled Worker visa.

Applicants who fulfil most of the criteria are strongly encouraged to seek further information and to apply.

You will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. The Supporting Statement should include a cover letter and should also clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description. Click 

here

for information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement.

To discuss the post in more detail, please contact Chantelle Alderson, the Operations Manager, using the contact details below.

Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on Friday 3 February 2023 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.