Postdoctoral Research Scientist

We are seeking three Postdoctoral Research Associates to investigate an exciting and emerging area of tissue biology: how the extracellular matrix (ECM) acts as an essential signalling network in the establishment and maintenance of tissue function throughout the lifespan. The ECM is a critical but relatively understudied component of tissue biology. Not only is its healthy regulation essential for tissue function, but its dysfunction drives chronic diseases. Understanding its role requires a highly interdisciplinary approach that integrates principles from biology, physics and engineering. All projects will be undertaken in close collaboration with research groups across the University of Oxford. One position will focus on the role of ECM and basement membrane in development, in collaboration with Shankar Srinivas's laboratory; one will investigate the role of ECM regulation in joint degeneration and regeneration in osteoarthritis, working with Tonia Vincent's laboratory; and one will

explore ECM-mediated mechanisms of tissue repair in spiny mouse, a model system of scarless wound healing, in collaboration with Paul Riley's laboratory. The ideal candidate will hold or be close to completion of a PhD/DPhil with sufficient specialist knowledge in mechanobiology, tissue biology, inflammatory disease, or developmental biology to work within established research programmes.