Research Assistant (Research Nurse)

Applications are invited for a research nurse to work with the CLuB team in the TCD Molecular Pathology Group and Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The Molecular Pathology Group is led by Prof O’Leary and is focussed on circulating tumour cells (CTCs) and circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) components of the liquid biopsy. CTC enumeration and molecular analysis of ctDNA have the potential to enable real time monitoring of cancer progression, recurrence, and treatment response earlier than traditional biopsy methods. However, challenges exist with the detection of CTCs and ctDNA from the blood of patients with certain cancer types. DNA methylation alterations are frequently observed early on in cancer, contributing to the of control gene expression which can fix genes in the “off” position. The epigenetic landscape of the liquid biopsy remains a largely unexplored field with great clinical potential, potentially allowing us to capture information about the origins of early cancer metastasis. The project aims to advance a recent FDA approved CTC isolation platform to investigate the prognostic role of novel CTC specific markers in breast and ovarian cancer. In addition, the project will interrogate the role of ctDNA methylation in early ovarian and breast cancer disease diagnosis and prognosis. Molecular profiling of CTCs and ctDNA can give us real-time information regarding ovarian and breast cancer tumour evolution. Training with also be viable in bioinformatics and machine learning. We are seeking a highly motivated and well-organised individual with a strong interest in cancer research.  

At Trinity, we are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Trinity welcomes applications from all individuals, including those applicants with disabilities, those who may have had non-traditional career paths, those who have taken time out for reasons including family or caring responsibilities. We also welcome international applicants including those whom have been displaced due to war.

We are ranked 3rd in the world for gender equality (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2020) and we hold an Athena SWAN Bronze award, recognising our work to advance gender equality. The University is actively pursuing a Silver level award, which it has committed to achieving by 2025. Trinity is committed to supporting the work-life balance and to creating a family-friendly working environment.