Job Title: Postdoctoral Researcher Department: Department of Psychiatry Reporting to: Professor David Cotter Location: RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9 Contract/Duration: Specified Purpose - up to 24 months, full-time Remuneration: PD2, IUA Salary Scale (point commensurate with experience) Closing Date: 23:45pm on Sunday 15th of February Summary of Post This study, funded by a collaboration with an Industry partner, will be looking at proteins belonging to the complement and coagulation pathways that were found to be altered in early psychosis.
Recently we have uncovered exciting preliminary evidence that elevated levels of certain complement and coagulation proteins are associated with better response to treatment with one antipsychotic drug, amisulpiride, and improved outcomes among young people with first episode of psychosis.
These findings were based on analyses from the EU-funded OPTIMISE study) [ref PMID: 30115598].
The project will extend these important findings to investigate prediction of response in large international cohorts of patients with psychosis.
We will use state-of-the-art proteomics methods to investigate baseline levels and changes in these proteins in relation to treatment response and clinical outcomes.
Since there are no current biomarkers of treatment response in routine clinical use, the study will advance the field of precision medicine in psychosis with the aim of facilitating earlier and more effective treatments and better outcomes for affected individuals.
The potential candidate should have strong statistical analysis experience (that can be applied to in protein quantitation methods in proteomic methods) and experience in the field of psychosis and disease modifying factors such as treatment in First episode psychosis.
Specifically, the duties of the post are: Manage and conduct in activities associated with the research group project to include contribute to experimental design and post study analysis.
Undertake statistical and bioinformatics analysis Review of study designs and statistical analysis plans as required.
Review of draft progress reports.
Support the preparation of scientific reports and grant review reports as required.
Writing peer-review publications and presentations.
Academic supervision of students and (technical) research staff, as required.
Other such duties that may be assigned from time to time.
Complying with statutory legislation and Department rules and requirements in furtherance of your own and general staff welfare and safety.
Undergoing programmes of training and development as may be required from time to time.
Representing the best interests of the Department/College at all times.
Qualifications - (Essential): Ph D in a relevant field, ideally psychosis, clinical neuroscience/psychiatric disorders/psychology Excellent biostatistical skills The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in biomarker work in psychosis and inflammation and novel inflammatory markers of outcome Some experimental experience in wet lab research, e.g., biochemical methods and proteomics, is ideal but not a requirement.
Knowledge & Experience - (Essential): Ph D in a relevant field, ideally psychosis, clinical neuroscience/psychiatric disorders/psychology Excellent biostatistical skills The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in biomarker work in psychosis and inflammation and novel inflammatory markers of outcome Some experimental experience in wet lab research, e.g., biochemical methods and proteomics, is ideal but not a requirement.
Key Skills required for the role: Project Management Skills: Ability to ensure that project plans are communicated and that all timelines are met Self-starter with the ability to work as part of a team: Ability to operate effectively as part of a team - is cordial, tolerant and willing to help others, is co-operative and patient; shares work and information; establishes rapport, can influence and develop effective networks I.
T.
skills: Knowledge of MS Office suite and appropriate statistical software (e.g., Stata, R).
Conscientious: Have a pro-active approach to work, anticipating and resolving problems in advance; have keen attention to detail - from anticipating and addressing issues in advance to understanding requests and delivering quality work with minimal errors.
Flexibility: Can operate flexibly within a busy environment; can shift focus when required.
Customer Focus: Have strong customer service skills.
Be able to communicate with a high level of initiative, tact, diplomacy and confidentiality.
Motivated: Display a 'can-do' attitude, be committed to RCSI ORI and its development; demonstrate enthusiasm and passion for the role.
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.
All applications for this post must be made through the career's webpage 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.