Juan Burrone

The Lieberam group at the Centre for Gene Therapy & Regenerative Medicine (CGTRM), King's College London, is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance research in tissue regeneration and next-generation cellular and genetic therapeutics. The group specializes in investigating nerve-muscle connectivity and diseases affecting neuromuscular systems and cortical circuitry, utilizing human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based tissue culture models. This project, co-supervised by Dr Ivo Lieberam and Professor Juan Burrone, focuses on modelling neural circuits in vitro to study Bipolar Disorder (BD). The research involves differentiating human iPSCs into various cell lineages, assembling complex tissue culture models, and genetically modifying cells to mimic BD-associated genetic variants. Experimental approaches include immunocytochemistry, electrophysiology (patch-clamp and multi-electrode array recording), and live cell imaging (confocal microscopy and calcium flux imaging) to attribute abnormal network activity to specific neuronal subtypes and BD-linked mutations. The ultimate goal is to lay the groundwork for future therapeutic interventions, such as small molecule compounds or gene therapy, to normalize circuit activity in BD. The successful candidate will lead technical innovation, develop experimental plans, and allocate resources in collaboration with the team. A strong background in human iPSC culture, neural differentiation, electrophysiology, and advanced imaging is essential, along with excellent interpersonal and communication skills for working in a diverse, interdisciplinary environment. The position is full-time, fixed-term until 30th November 2026, with a competitive salary (£45,031 - £46,189 per annum including London Weighting Allowance). Applicants should hold a PhD in stem cell biology, neuroscience, or a related field, and demonstrate proficiency in relevant laboratory techniques and data analysis. King's College London is committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming candidates from all backgrounds. Application requires submission of a CV and supporting statement addressing the essential and desirable criteria. For further information, contact Dr Ivo Lieberam at the provided email address.

The Lieberam group at the King's College London Centre for Gene Therapy & Regenerative Medicine (CGTRM) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance research in tissue regeneration and next-generation cellular and genetic therapeutics. The group specializes in studying nerve-muscle connectivity and diseases affecting neuromuscular systems and cortical circuitry, utilizing human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based tissue culture models. This project, co-supervised by Dr Ivo Lieberam and Prof Juan Burrone, aims to develop and analyze complex tissue culture models derived from human iPSCs, genetically modified to mimic variants associated with Bipolar Disorder (BD). The research will employ immunocytochemistry, electrophysiology, and live cell imaging to approximate cellular phenotypes in an in vitro model of BD, attributing abnormal network activity to specific neuronal subtypes and BD-linked genetic mutations. The ultimate goal is to lay the groundwork for future interventions to normalize circuit activity in BD using small molecule compounds or gene therapy. The successful candidate will lead technical innovation, develop experimental plans, and allocate resources in collaboration with the supervisors and team members. Essential expertise includes human iPSC culture, neural differentiation, advanced electrophysiology (patch-clamp, multi-electrode arrays), confocal microscopy, and live calcium flux imaging. The role requires strong interpersonal skills for effective teamwork in a diverse, interdisciplinary environment. The position is full-time, fixed-term until 30th November 2026, with a competitive salary including London Weighting Allowance. Applicants should hold a PhD in stem cell biology, neuroscience, or a related field, and demonstrate proficiency in molecular biology, genetic modification, imaging, and data analysis. Candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting PhD award may be considered for a Research Assistant role, with promotion upon confirmation of the PhD. The group values inclusivity and diversity, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds. To apply, candidates must submit a CV and supporting statement addressing the essential criteria. Further details are available in the Job Description document and recruitment pages.