Job Description

Postdoctoral Scientist
- Baker Medical Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia

Description: The Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory have made significant leads in the world of transcriptional regulation, genome structure and function, and is currently expanding its scientific program dedicated to understanding gene behaviour in health & disease. The central theme in our laboratory has been to define transcriptional mechanisms by which co-activators and co-repressors, via the recruitment of regulatory proteins, function in the development of human disease.

The Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Group studies the mechanisms by which specific co-regulatory complexes serve to integrate the transcriptional responses to distinct signaling pathways, using relevant models of heart disease, mental retardation, cancer and neuronal development. Our laboratory has a focus on endogenous gene regulation. Scientists have generally relied on genetic and biochemical systems to study gene regulation, because, genetics excels in identifying transcription factors and regulatory complexes required for expression, whereas biochemical testing transcend what they are capable of in vitro. However, neither discipline can tell us definitely the order of events that occur naturally on endogenous genes. Understanding endogenous mechanisms of transcriptional control allows the biologist to manipulate models often seen as difficult to control. In the short time since our move to the Baker Institute in 2003, we have contributed some unexpected findings in this area and have stimulated new areas of research in our laboratory. The past three years has been without a doubt, our most exciting and productive. All projects are in an especially fruitful phase with the promise of future discovery. The rapid rate of progress over the past three years and the series of discoveries that we have contributed concerning transcriptional regulation and epigenetic control, exhibits the dedication, talent and enthusiasm of a young and outstanding research team. These individuals have been able to make remarkable progress and we are seeking a motivated colleague to work with us in this exciting field.

Qualifications: The successful candidate will be a highly motivated person, with good communication skills and a solid background in cell biology, protein chemistry and basic knowledge in molecular biology. Ideally, s/he will have have demonstrated experience using classic isocratic separation strategies using FPLC, gel-filtration and chromatography and protein immunoprecipitation and protein purification and manipulation techniques.

Salary Details: Salary range dependant upon experience.

Application Details: To apply for this position please email a covering letter, CV (including 2 referees) and current salary details, to Sam El-Osta.

For further information, please contact:

Associate Professor Sam El-Osta (Group Leader)
Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory
Baker Medical Research Institute
75 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004
Australia
Phone: 613-8532-1389
Fax: 613-8532-1100

Closing Date: Check with institute