HRB-funded Postdoctoral Scholarship — hiPSC-based Preclinical Model for DDX3X Syndrome at Maynooth University, Ireland

Summary

Maynooth University invites applications for a funded postdoctoral scholarship to develop a human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)–based preclinical model for DDX3X syndrome. The project will investigate how DDX3X mutations affect macrophage differentiation and innate immune signalling, with a focus on NLRP3 inflammasome activation. This is a collaborative, HRB-funded project with strong opportunities for professional development, patient-public involvement (PPI) and national/international networking.

Designation

Post-Doctoral Researcher (Level 1)

Key Details

Research Area

• Neurodevelopmental disorders — DDX3X syndrome
• Innate immunity and inflammasome biology, with emphasis on NLRP3 activation
• Human iPSC modelling and macrophage differentiation
• Molecular and cellular assays to interrogate RNA helicase function in immune signalling

Location

This position is based in the Department of Biology at Maynooth University, Ireland, with collaborative links to researchers at the University of Galway (UoG), Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC).

Eligibility / Qualification

• PhD (awarded or near completion) in molecular biology, immunology, stem cell biology, neuroscience or a closely related discipline.
• Practical experience with hiPSC culture and differentiation, ideally including macrophage lineage differentiation.
• Experience with molecular and cellular immunology assays (e.g., inflammasome activation assays, cytokine analysis, immunoblotting, flow cytometry).
• Strong cell culture and molecular biology skills; experience with RNA biology is desirable.
• Good communication skills and a willingness to engage with collaborators and patient/public groups (PPI).
• Track record of conference presentations and/or peer-reviewed publications is advantageous.

Scholarship Description

This postdoctoral scholarship supports a focused research programme to create and characterise hiPSC-based models of DDX3X syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by germline mutations in the RNA helicase DDX3X. The scholar will:

• Generate and validate hiPSC lines carrying DDX3X syndrome–associated mutations (or use available patient-derived lines).
• Differentiated hiPSCs into macrophage lineages and assess differentiation efficiency and functional properties.
• Investigate NLRP3 inflammasome activation and other innate immune responses in the context of DDX3X mutations.
• Work in close collaboration with national and international project partners and engage with patient and public stakeholders.
• Present findings at conferences and contribute to publications and dissemination activities.

The role offers opportunities for professional development, networking, and attendance at national and international meetings. The work has direct clinical relevance for patients living with DDX3X syndrome.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online by the closing date and time. Late applications will not be accepted; any applications still in progress at the closing time will be cancelled by the system.

• Apply online: Apply for this position
• Read the full job description and requirements: Job description (PDF)
• Application guidance: eRecruitment Applicant Guidelines (PDF)

Last Date for Apply

Applications must be submitted by 23:30hrs (local Irish time) on Sunday, 1 November 2026. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

Notes

• Maynooth University is an equal opportunities employer and the appointment is subject to the Statutes of the University.
• MU staff should be logged in through ESS to apply.
• The project is collaborative and includes patient-public involvement; applicants should be comfortable communicating with diverse stakeholders.