Research Associate in Imaging Chemistry - INTERNAL ONLY - Strand, London, WC2R 2LS

Research Associate in Imaging Chemistry - INTERNAL ONLY - Strand, London, WC2R 2LSAbout us

King’s College London with its 200 years of heritage is recognised today as a world-leading research university, ranked 7th in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework. We understand the need to turn original thinking into everyday application, encouraging curiosity to develop work that makes an impact on society and global issues. Great names from King’s are continuing to change the world.

 
We have an exciting position for a qualified Research Associate to undertake a ground-breaking preclinical, British Heart Foundation-funded, research in the School of Biomedical Engineering at St Thomas\\\' Hospital (STH).

About the role

The research aims to detect high-risk coronary atherosclerotic plaques by identifying dysfunctional elastin synthesis and/or breakdown, first in mouse and pig models of atherosclerosis and later in patients with coronary artery disease. The project will utilize and further develop, in collaboration with chemists, a recently developed tropoelastin-specific MRI probe; utilize advanced MRI protocols and ex vivo molecular biology and analytical techniques to investigate whether: (i) Molecular MRI of tropoelastin can distinguish between high-risk and stable atherosclerotic plaque both in mouse and swine models; and (ii) whether the tropoelastin specific probe allows differentiation between high-risk and stable plaque in patients with coronary artery disease and (iii) decipher the biological role of dysfunctional elastogenesis in the development of high-risk atherosclerotic plaque. This study will answer the clinically important question whether MRI can selectively identify high-risk coronary plaque and guide treatment aimed at reducing the risk of myocardial infarction in a precision medicine approach.

Located in the heart of London, King’s is the hub of a global network of strong academic connections and collaboration, with prestigious international partnerships within and across disciplines – scientific and medical, social and creative. King’s is investing in the highest calibre of talent to drive the university forward to achieve its greatest potential. The very best from the United Kingdom and across the globe are invited to join King’s. We are looking for a strong commitment to teaching and research, to push the boundaries of knowledge, influence the future and create a lasting impact.

This post will be offered as a full-time post (35 Hours per week) on a fixed term contract for 5 months OR as a part time post (28 hours per week) on a fixed term contract for 6.25 months.