A post-doctoral level researcher is needed at the Centre for Liver Research, University of Birmingham (UK), which has an international reputation in Basic and Translational Liver Science research. Since 2008 the Centre for Liver Research has been a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Unit (BRU). The Birmingham NIHR Liver BRU is part of a multi-million pound scheme to prevent, diagnose and treat ill-health, and is one of 16 BRUs in England that focus on translational research.

The Syn group focuses on dissecting mechanisms that promote progression of (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) fatty liver disease, and those that lead to the development of primary liver cancers (hepatocellular carcinoma). Currently, the group is examining the role of the novel matrix molecule and cytokine, Osteopontin in a) regulating lymphocyte recruitment across hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells, b) driving liver repair and fibrosis, and c) enhancing tumor development. Underpinning all these are studies to investigate the post-transcriptional and post-translational regulation of the Osteopontin molecule. Approaches utilized include standard cell culture systems, molecular and cell biological techniques, and advanced immunological methods which include flow based adhesion assays and liver Krumdieck slices. In collaboration with groups in the USA, Germany and Spain, we will examine the role of Osteopontin isoforms (splice variants and PTM) in vivo.

The candidate should have a MD or PhD in molecular/ cellular biology/ immunology/ biochemistry or closely-related life/biomedical science field. The ideal candidate would be a motivated clinician and/or scientist with a strong background in the above and expertise in cell culture, protein biochemistry and signal transduction.

Interested individuals please send an up-to-date CV (including publication lists and references) to:
Dr Wing-Kin Syn
Clinician-Scientist and Honorary Consultant Hepatologist / Physician
Centre for Liver Research
5th Floor Institute of Biomedical Research
Room 543
University of Birmingham
B15 2TT
Tel: 44-1214142246
wsyn@doctors.org.uk

Honorary Professor
Department of Physiology
University of the Basque Country
Bilbao, Spain