Our research is focused on metal ions and their roles in health and disease. Of particular interest is their influence upon cellular processes through their interactions with proteins and their emergence as important disease mediators. In this Diabetes UK-funded project you will investigate the role of magnesium in modulating thrombotic risk in type I diabetes (T1D).
This is a collaborative project led by Dr Alan Stewart at the University of St Andrews and involves academic partners at the University of Leeds (Prof Ramzi Ajjan) and University of Sunderland (Dr Matthew Campbell). The research will build upon our previous work in this area (e.g. Sobczak et al. (2021) Chemical Science 12: 4079-4093; Sobczak et al. (2020) Thrombosis & Haemostasis 120: 243-252).
We have found that people with T1D can have lower blood magnesium levels compared to those without diabetes. Magnesium is an essential nutrient important for health and our work shows that the lower the level of blood magnesium, the more difficult it is for a blood clot to break down after it forms. This increases the risk of blood vessel occlusion and consequently heart attacks and strokes.
The role of the Research Fellow in this project will be to aid us in establishing the mechanistic relationship between plasma magnesium concentration and hypofibrinolysis using molecular and biochemical approaches. A background in protein biochemistry, chemistry, or analytical science and a relevant PhD is essential.
This post will be hosted within Cellular Medicine. The division combines basic and clinical research with the goal of understanding the cellular and molecular basis of disease. This interdisciplinary research uses cutting edge technology to address fundamental biomedical processes involved in health and disease. The successful applicant will be provided with mentorship, peer support and training opportunities to further develop their research career.
The post is available for 30 months starting around March/April/May 2024.
Applications should include:
- A covering letter
- A full curriculum vitae including a list of refereed publications and key conference contributions.
Employees of the University have access to a wide range of staff benefits including:
- Annual leave of 34 days, plus 5 public holidays
- Membership of the USS Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions
- A range of family friendly policies
- Staff discount schemes
- Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes and subsidised local bus travel
- Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff/children of staff, access to library facilities, salary sacrifice scheme and a range of wellbeing initiatives
Informal enquiries should be addressed to Dr Alan Stewart (ajs21@st-andrews.ac.uk).
Applications are particularly welcome from people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented in research posts at the University.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the St Andrews experience. We strive to create a fair and inclusive culture demonstrated through our commitment to diversity awards (Athena Swan, Carer Positive, LGBT Charter and Race Charters). We celebrate diversity by promoting profiles of BAME, LGBTIQ+ staff and supporting networks including the Staff BAME Network; Staff with Disabilities Network; Staff LGBTIQ+ Network; and the Staff Parents & Carers Network. Full details available online: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/
Closing Date: 16 February 2024
Please quote ref: AR2939NB
Further Particulars: AR2939NB FPs.doc
School of Medicine
Salary: £37,099 per annum
Start Date: To be agreed (expected to be March/April/May 2024)
Duration of Post: Fixed term for 30 months