Job Title:
Postdoctoral Researcher
Department:
Physiology & Medical Physics
Reporting to:
Dr Chris Greene
Location:
123 St Stephen's Green
Contract/Duration:
Temporary (Up to 3 years) - Full Time
Remuneration:
Starting at IUA PD1 Point 1 (€47,747)
Closing Date:
23.59pm on 4th February 2026
Summary of Post
Autoimmune limbic encephalitis (ALE) and Rasmussen's encephalitis (RE) are considered rare to ultra-rare paediatric and adult forms of human autoimmune encephalitis (AE) presenting with seizures as well as behavioural decline. Current evidence suggests that both AE types often develop into secondary irreversible focal mostly temporal or unihemispheric (peri-insular) brain atrophy/sclerosis with devastating treatment-refractory focal epilepsy. This process is mainly driven by neuron- and potentially also astrocyte-directed T cell responses.
Currently, there is no approved tailored treatment option for T cell responses prevailing in ALE and RE and no approved immunotherapy at all. This position forms part of the T-CARE consortium with international partners which will investigate T-cell-directed therapies for autoimmune limbic encephalitis and Rasmussen's encephalitis using validated rodent models of T-cell-mediated epilepsy. It will test non-mitogenic, non-depleting anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies in preventive and therapeutic settings across three experimental models, generating robust data to support future proof-of-concept clinical trials.
Responsibilities
Establish a mouse model of autoimmune epilepsy
Determine the efficacy of an immunotherapy on seizure outcomes
Coordinate with project partners on experimental design and results
Lead, prepare and publish scientific results in leading international peer-reviewed journals
Assist in supervision of doctoral researchers in the group
Presentation of research results at national and international scientific meetings
Actively engage in personal career development, with support and mentorship provided for pursuing independent research fellowships and funding opportunities
Qualifications (Essential)
PhD in Immunology, Neuroscience or closely related discipline (Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics etc)
Knowledge & Experience (Essential)
Strong background in neuroimmunology as evidenced by PhD research, publications or equivalent experience
A proven track record of research excellence, supported by high-quality publications, and appropriate for the career stage
Hands‑on experience with core immunology techniques: flow cytometry, molecular biology, cell/tissue culture
Demonstrated experience with in vivo epilepsy models is highly desirable
We are all too aware that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can sometimes stop fantastic candidates putting themselves forward, so please do submit an application – we'd love to hear from you.
Application Process
Please apply online through the RCSI careers portal on the closing date with your CV and cover letter.
Click here to read our Recruitment and Selection Policy for Researcher.
Informal Enquiries
Informal enquiries are invited in the first instance through Florencia Raimondo Human Resources Department (email: ). All applications for this post must be made through the career's webpage Florencia can arrange for relevant queries to be addressed by the hiring manager. Please note that we do not accept CVs directly.
Garda vetting and occupational health review may be required for this role, depending on the nature of the duties and responsibilities. Further information will be provided during the recruitment process.
Eligibility to Work in Ireland
Visa sponsorship is available for candidates who fully meet the essential criteria of the role. Candidates who require a work permit or hosting agreement are welcome to apply.
Proof of eligibility documentation will be required at a later stage in the recruitment process. Please note that sponsorship is subject to approval by the relevant Irish authorities and role-specific eligibility.
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