Cardiac hypertrophy is a key risk factor for adverse cardiac events, including fibrosis. However, the roles of cardiomyocyte specific triggers for initiating progression from hypertrophy to fibrosis are not understood. We have developed a transgenic model to investigate the role of angiotensin AT1-receptors in this process, without the complicating influence of pressure induced overload or in utero effects, by targeted over-expression in differentiated adult cardiomyocytes (Ainscough et al, 2009 Cardiovascular Research 81: 592-600). The model uses a constitutively active receptor that can be differentially stimulated with a selective agonist, allowing separation of direct cardiac from systemic effects. Basal activity causes cardiomyocyte hypertrophy similar to that seen in the clinical setting, while agonist stimulation causes adverse remodelling, with ventricular dilatation and dysfunction, and increased interstitial fibrosis. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the appointee will investigate the mechanisms underlying this switch, with emphasis on identifying key molecular changes in signal transduction and gene expression that trigger the transition from compensated hypertrophy towards remodelling and fibrosis.

 

You will have a PhD and research experience in a relevant area, and a commitment to furthering a career in biological research. This research will employ a range of techniques; including management of transgenic colonies, micro surgery, general molecular biology and complementary biochemistry, gene and protein array, histology, immunocytochemistry, fluorescence microscopy and computational analysis. The work will be based primarily in the laboratory of Dr Justin FX Ainscough.

 

The post is funded by the British Heart Foundation and is for a fixed term of three years.

 

University Grade 7 (£29,704 – £35,469 p.a.) It is likely that an appointment will be made at £29,704 p.a. in the first instance as there are funding limitations that dictate the level at which the appointment can start

 

Informal enquiries to Dr Justin Ainscough email medjfxa@leeds.ac.uk

 

To download an application form and further details please visit http://www.leeds.ac.uk and click on jobs. Alternatively application packs are available from Mrs Megan Parker tel +44 (0)113 392 5404 email m.o.parker@leeds.ac.uk

 

Closing date 11 September 2009