OverviewApplications are invited for a temporary post of a UCD Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1 within the UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science. We are seeking an exceptional and highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a newly funded research programme investigating how cellular metabolism regulates hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis. The position is based in the research group of Dr Martina Wallace at University College Dublin and is funded through the Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future Programme. Liver fibrosis is a major driver of morbidity and mortality in metabolic dysfunction associated liver disease and remains an area of urgent unmet clinical need. This project will address how metabolic pathways regulate the transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells into fibrogenic myofibroblasts and whether these pathways can be therapeutically targeted to halt or reverse fibrosis. The project combines state-of-the-art metabolomics, stable isotope tracing, CRISPR-based genetic manipulation, and in vivo models of metabolic liver disease to identify and mechanistically characterise metabolic drivers of fibrosis. The successful candidate will play a central role in advancing this work and will have the opportunity to shape the direction of the project while developing an independent research profile.ResponsibilitiesContribute to and help shape the direction of the research project on metabolic regulation of hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis.Perform and interpret state-of-the-art techniques (metabolomics, stable isotope tracing, CRISPR-based genetic manipulation).Utilize in vivo models of metabolic liver disease to identify metabolic drivers of fibrosis and contribute to mechanistic characterisation.Collaborate with the research team and contribute to data analysis, manuscript preparation, and dissemination of findings.Qualifications and SkillsCommunication and interpersonal skills; strong research background in metabolism, liver biology, and fibrosis.Proven ability to work to deadlines.Experience with mouse models of metabolic disease, obesity, or liver fibrosis.Eligibility and Career StageThe PD1 position is intended for early-stage researchers, either just after completion of a PhD or someone entering a new area for the first time. If you have already completed your PD1 stage in UCD or will soon complete a PD1, or you are an external applicant whose total Postdoctoral experience, inclusive of the duration of the advertised post, would exceed 4 years, you should not apply and should refer to PD2 posts instead.Remuneration and Application DetailsFixed Salary: €46,805 Per Annum.Closing date: 12:00 noon (local Irish time) on 06 May 2026.Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified. Applications in progress at the closing time will be cancelled automatically. UCD cannot accept late applications.UCD do not require assistance from Recruitment Agencies. Any CVs submitted by Recruitment Agencies will be returned.Prior to application, further information (including application procedure) should be obtained from the Work at UCD website: https://www.ucd.ie/workatucd/jobs/Note: This description reflects the role and expectations as stated in the original posting.
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