Research Assistant - Surgery

Department: School of Medicine, Department of Surgery Reporting to: Dr Marie McIlroy Location: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), 123 St. Stephens Green, Dublin 2, Ireland Contract/Duration: Fulltime, specified purpose contract for 12 months, with the potential for extension Remuneration: Aligned to level 1 of the IUA research salary scale Closing Date: Jan 5th 2025 Project Overview Cancer-related cachexia (CRC), a syndrome characterized by the progressive loss of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue mass that impacts the majority of cancer patients with advanced disease and is responsible for 20% of cancer-related deaths. CRC is driven by complex metabolic changes, impairs patient treatment toleration and response as well as overall survival. Current in vivo and 2D in vitro models fail to fully replicate human cachexia, particularly in the context of the endocrine environment, underscoring the need for advanced patient-specific models of CRC. This project aims to investigate the role of androgen excess, particularly those of adrenal origin, in CRC using an innovative approach that incorporates 3D bioprinted models of human skeletal muscle and adenocarcinoma cell lines. Preliminary data from our lab indicate that androgen excess significantly alters cancer cell metabolism, which may contribute to cachexia development. The project builds on the existing expertise of the Androgens in Health and Disease research group; with advanced models of 3D bioprinting patient derived skeletal muscle and primary tumour specimens within Dr. Mcllroy’s group alongside Professor O’Reilly’s world-leading clinical expertise on metabolic dysregulation. The successful applicant will be guided by the team to develop highly novel ex vivo models by applying 3D bioprinting to patient-derived tissues from patients taking part in on-going clinical trials. The programme of work will establish a highly innovative biological model to dissect the metabolic consequences of androgen excess in this condition. Specifically, the duties of the post are:

• Work productively with other research team members in a collegiate manner and contribute towards the progress of the research project
• Apply experimental and analytical strategies to carefully manage any data generated for presentations and peer-review publications
• Contribute to research team meetings

Qualifications – (Essential):

• Applicants should have a minimum of 2:1 undergraduate degree (required) AND/OR Post-graduate degree (desirable) in a relevant biological subject.

Knowledge & Experience – (Essential):

• Knowledge and experience of current molecular and cell biology techniques.
• Self-motivated, hard-working and willing to contribute towards research in the area of cachexia.
• Effective communication style, proficient in report writing and good presentation skills.

Knowledge & Experience (Desirable):

• Experience in aseptic tissue culture practices handling such as cell culture, cell counting and seeding, resuscitation of frozen cell stocks etc.
• Any prior experience of working with clinical samples would be beneficial.
• Knowledge in molecular and cell biology-based assays such as 3D bioprinting, proliferation assay, microscopy and ELISA, and nucleic acid isolation, protein extraction and quantification.

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 before the closing date with your CV and cover letter. Applications must be made online; applications made by email or after the closing date will not be considered. Questions can be addressed to Dr McIlroy (mmcilroy@rcsi.ie) Employee Benefits RCSI ensures you have the resources you need to thrive by offering a wide range of benefits in areas including time away, finance, community, health, and well-being, and insuring your financial future. Below are some additional benefits available to you as an RCSI employee:

• 20 days annual leave (for full-time employees), plus an additional 6.5 Privilege days
• Flexible/hybrid working options for colleagues across many roles
• Additional leave options including paid maternity leave, paternity/parental leave, study leave
• 7% Employer pension contribution
• Onsite gym €10 per/mth including classes and PT sessions
• Childcare support 20% discount at Giraffe
• Free eye test and annual flu vaccination
• TaxSaver commuter tickets and Bike to Work schemes
• A site sustainability team focusing on environmental initiatives; Green Campus Initiative
• Competitively priced café and restaurant
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion forums, and network groups
• Employee assistance programme with Spectrum Life
• Learning and Development training programmes including LinkedIn Learning for career progression
• Discounted services including GP visits, 10% off dental, staff parking, mobile tariffs, Group Scheme discount on numerous brands
• Sports and social club including yoga, Pilates, fitness classes, Zumba, running club, social evenings, Summer BBQ
• Ticket Draws for events including Rugby, Taste of Dublin, Dublin Horse Show, theatre, music & comedy events

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