That dysregulation of proteasome functions are associated with neurodegenerative disorders has been demonstrated at the molecular level
in neurons
and in postmortem human donor tissues. The proteasome system has been assigned with important roles in neuronal functions
including regulating axonal growth and synapse formation
as well as dendritic activity. It is therefore not surprising that impairment or sequestering of proteasomal particles from subcellular regions may have devastating outcomes that result in neuronal degeneration. We recently found provided evidence that proteasomes concentrate around aggregates that invade cells. Using advanced 2D and 3D imaging of neurons
our lab is investigating how proteasomes and potential cofactors may support protein and aggregate degradation and how dysfunction of the proteasome system may lead to neurodegenerative conditions. aggregation REVERSING PROTEIN AGGREGATION The presence of insoluble protein deposits in the brain is a hallmark of neurodegenerative disorders
which include Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Distinct misfolded proteins
such as tau and alpha-synuclein
have been associated with different neurodegenerative disorders. Aggregation of these misfolded proteins goes through several stages
during which the monomeric proteins assemble into oligomers in solution
which then through further aggregation and conformationally re-arrangements eventually form filament structures (fibrils). While the aggregation process has gained much attention
relatively little is known about the reverse process of aggregate removal. Our lab is interested in which additional co-proteins may assist proteasomes in removing stable fibrils and how the toxic oligomers that damage biological functions may be removed by the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS)
thus reversing neurodegeneration. We are now expanding our research into understanding how additional modifications may influence aggregation
toxicity and susceptibility to be targeted by the UPS. cytokine/aggregate stimulation NEUROINFLAMMATION The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) plays major regulatory functions in the activation of pro-inflammatory signalling through the NF-kB pathway
and more recently reported the c/EBPb pathway in microglia. We are interested in defining the proteasome types that are involved in regulating pro-inflammatory signalling in response to aggregate-induced stress. We think that different cell states may have variable proteasome levels and thus regulate inflammation activation diffeerently. We are interested identifying proteasome activities important to regulation inflammation and how aggregates may dysregulate these activities leading neurodegeneration. Using advanced microscopy and genetically engineered iPSCs
we would like to study how proteasomes are associated with aggregate formation in neurons and microglia of AD and PD models. We believe that distinct types of proteasomes may be novel therapeutic targets to ameliorate AD- and PD-associated cognitive deficits.. 1. Communication Effective communication is essential to build strong relationships with colleagues
clients and stakeholders. Not only does this involve the ability to convey messages in a clear and compelling way
but also the ability to understand the needs of others and respond to feedback. Employers want people who can build professional relationships with colleagues
which is especially important when working with teams. Communication is often evaluated in the workplace through informal feedback
such as verbal or written comments from colleagues and supervisors. An alternative method is a formal evaluation or assessment. The ability to communicate effectively is often considered a critical component of professional success
and is highly valued by employers in a wide range of industries and professions. Here are some examples of communication skills: Active listening Verbal communication Nonverbal communication Written communication Presentation skills 2. Leadership A good leader has the ability to inspire their team to achieve greatness. They are able to set a clear vision
communicate it effectively and create a culture of accountability and excellence. More importantly
they’re able to inspire and influence team members to achieve shared goals and objectives. The ability to lead effectively is often considered a critical component of professional success
and is highly valued by employers in a wide range of industries and professions. Because most employees work in teams
leadership is widely recognized as a critical attribute for success in the modern workplace. Here are some examples of leadership skills: Problem-solving Coaching and mentoring Management Strategic thinking 3. Teamwork Teamwork involves the ability to work with others toward a shared goal. It requires communication
collaboration and a shared commitment to work in a group. Individuals who are able to work collaboratively with others are more likely to achieve their professional goals
and to contribute to the success of their organizations. In a professional setting
good teamwork can help to foster creativity and innovation because it encourages members to share ideas
brainstorm new solutions and collaborate on new initiatives. Working as part of a collaborative team can also enhance job satisfaction and contribute to a positive work environment. Here are some examples of teamwork skills: Conflict resolution Mediation Accountability Collaboration 4. Creativity Creativity involves the ability to think outside the box and come up with ideas that challenge assumptions. Needless to say
it requires a mindset of curiosity
risk-taking and a willingness to embrace ambiguity and uncertainty. On another front
creativity is essential for effective problem-solving
meaning it allows individuals to tackle issues from new and different angles. Creative individuals also give organizations a competitive edge by enabling them to develop new products and systems that set them apart from their competition. Here are some examples of creative skills: Brainstorming Imagination Curiosity Experimentation 5. Time management Time management involves the ability to set priorities
organize tasks and allot time across different activities. It requires discipline and a willingness to avoid distractions and low-priority tasks. Naturally
good time management skills can help individuals avoid the stress and anxiety that can arise from missed deadlines. But more importantly
those who can manage their time effectively are more likely to be seen as reliable and efficient
which allows them to stand out in the workplace. Here are some examples of time management skills: Planning Goal-setting Delegation Time blocking 6. Adaptability In today’s rapidly changing business landscape
adaptability is a key soft skill that enables individuals to stay ahead of the curve. An employee with this skill can adjust to changing circumstances
for example
and learn new skills and technologies to remain relevant in the workplace. Because it’s impossible to avoid unexpected challenges
having adaptable employees allows organizations to bounce back from setbacks much faster. Plus
they can also read situations quickly and adjust their approach to adapt based on the situation. Here are some examples of adaptability skills: Flexibility Resilience Growth mindset Analysis 7. Problem-solving Problem-solving involves the ability to come up with alternative solutions. This skill is crucial to identifying and addressing complex challenges and opportunities in a variety of contexts. Problem-solving also makes it easier to make more informed decisions because employees are able to analyze situations and identify the best course of action. As a result
teams are able to get more done in less time. Here are some examples of problem-solving skills: Critical thinking Analysis Strategic thinking Initiative 8. Work ethic Work ethic demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their job. Having a strong work ethic makes you seem more reliable and dependable
which improves your credibility in the workplace. There are a lot of ways to demonstrate a strong work ethic. Some examples include arriving on time for meetings
meeting deadlines consistently and being accountable for your actions. If you encounter any challenges in the workplace
you should also maintain a positive demeanor and adapt to changing situations. Here are some examples of work ethic skills: Punctuality Reliability Professionalism Discipline 9. Critical thinking Critical thinking enables individuals to approach problems and challenges with a strategic and analytical mindset. When making informed decisions
this skill allows you to weigh available options and consider potential outcomes. A critical thinker can evaluate the strength of arguments and identify flaws in reasoning. They consider multiple perspectives
which makes them more likely to pinpoint the short-term and long-term consequences of their decisions. Additionally
they can also identify the root cause of a problem and generate multiple solutions. Here are some examples of critical thinking skills: Analysis Evaluation Deductive reasoning Synthesis 10. Conflict management Not every employee can get along with colleagues every time. As a team tackles obstacles
conflict and opposing ideas could arise every now and then. Conflict management is the process of addressing disputes or disagreements in a constructive and effective manner. Often
this requires good communication skills
active listening
empathy
negotiation skills and a willingness to collaborate and find common ground. When managing conflict
it is important to identify common goals and interests for all parties involved. This can help to establish a sense of unity and collaboration
and even lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Being open to different ideas and perspectives can also make individuals feel motivated to work towards resolution. Here are some examples of conflict management skills: Empathy Negotiation Mediation Conflict resolution 11. Emotional intelligence Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize and understand one’s own emotions and those of others. In today’s collaborative work environments
this skill enables employees to navigate complex social dynamics and work effectively within teams. It also allows them to provide constructive feedback in a way that is sensitive to the emotions of others
leading to more successful outcomes and stronger relationships. Effective leaders often have the ability to motivate others and navigate challenging situations with grace and empathy. Here are some examples of conflict management skills: Self-awareness Empathy Social skills .Skills & Qualifications • Ability to work independently and efficiently. • Strong organizational and task prioritization skills. • Excellent communication skills and proficiency in performing administrative and clerical tasks. • Proficient in general laboratory procedures
techniques
and documentation. • Willingness to learn and adapt to new techniques and technologies. • Fluent in English
Spanish
French
and Catalan. • Proficient in statistical analysis and software such as SPSS
MATLAB
and Python. • Proficient in using various software programs
including Microsoft Office Suite (Word
Excel
PowerPoint). • Advanced knowledge and experience in 3D cell culture techniques. • Skilled in protein isolation
Western Blot
PCR
rt-qPCR
toxicity testing
IHC
Northern Blot
and ELISA. • Proficient in anatomical dissection studies for medical and veterinary purposes. • Experienced in static analysis of behavioral data and microarray data. • Familiarity with electrophysiology
imaging
protein purification
and optical and electron microscopy techniques. • Advanced level proficiency in conducting animal experiments
behavioral experiments
anatomical dissection
and molecular analysis. Job Summary The Ye lab invites applications from talented
highly motivated
and ambitious postdoctoral scientists for a Research Associate position leading one or more projects exploring the role of proteasomes in the clearance of toxic aggregates derived from pathological samples. The project will unveil factors that assist proteasomes in removing amyloidogenic proteins in healthy cells and the malfunction of proteasomes in pathological cells. You will use a multidisciplinary approach (maintenance and manipulation of IPSC-neurons and established cell lines
fluorescence imaging and various biochemical techniques) to identify the types of modifications and potential factors that are associated with proteasomes during cell stress induced by pathological protein aggregates. Please contact Dr Yu Ye – yu.ye1@imperial.ac.uk for a discussion about the project and role. This role is part of the Department of Brain Sciences at Imperial College London
located in. Postdocs in the Ye lab at Imperial enjoy excellent career development opportunities with: Access to a range of cutting-edge technologies for 2D and 3D super-resolution imaging capabilities Dedicated iPSC culture facilities in the new state-of-the-art Sir Michael Uren Hub. A collegial
team-oriented working environment. National links with colleagues in the UK DRI and international links with colleagues at Harvard Medical School. Support from the Postdoc and Fellows Development Centre (PFDC) and Imperial and UK DRI ECR Communities The opportunity to mentor
supervise and teach students Duties and responsibilities As a Research Associate in the Ye lab
you will: Build on your existing skills and experience to address major components of this project independently. Present research findings as written reports
at conferences
within the College and as published manuscripts. Take initiative in the planning of research
with clear and timely communications to the Group Leader and relevant researchers. Contribute to the smooth running of the lab and facilities
acting collegiately with other scientists
clinicians
technicians and students. Provide guidance to staff and assist in the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate research students
as required. Maintain highly organised and accurate records of experimental work. Undertake appropriate scientific and professional training. Essential requirements You are a motivated and organised researcher
excited by the science we do. With (or near completion of) a PhD in Cellular Neuroscience and/or IPSC cultures (or related discipline)
you will be strongly objective-driven
able to lead the project independently and put new knowledge into practice effectively. Experimental expertise working with IPSC-differentiated neuronal culture
basic biochemistry and molecular biology is essential. Experience with advanced microscopy is a bonus. Practical experience of quantitative image analysis
mass spectrometry or coding research projects is highly desirable in the lab.