Postdoc at Laboratory of Molecular Biology – UK

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), UK invites the applications for the post of postdoc scientist. MRC is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably protein crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies. 

The LMB has a clear goal of understanding biological processes at the molecular level, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease.  LBM aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years.

The LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both new and established researchers.  Scientists are drawn to the LMB from all over the world, thus creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and technical innovation.

UK Research and Innovation is a new entity that brings together nine partners to create an independent organisation with a strong voice for research and innovation, more information can be found at www.ukri.org

Pay Band

Band  MRC – PostDoc

Location  Cambridge

Salary  £30,914 – £33,755

Contract Type  Fixed Term

Job Type  Science

Full Time / Part Time  Full Time

Contract Length  3 years   

Purpose of the Postdoc Scientist

To work within the group of Dr Barford at the Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) on a programme investigating the structure and mechanism of multi-subunit complexes that regulate the cell cycle with specific reference to mitosis and chromosome segregation.

The project will involve single-particle cryo-EM of cell cycle regulatory proteins and kinetochores, and cryo-electron tomography of nuclei and cells to visualise chromosome segregation within its native cellular environment and using in-vitro reconstituted kinetochores.

Main duties of Postdoc in LMB UK

To undertake research aimed at using single-particle cryo-EM and cryo-electron tomography to investigate the kinetochore structure and will involve the following:

•    Cryo-EM grid preparation of cell cycle regulatory proteins and kinetochores.
•    Cryo-EM grid preparation of lamella from whole cells and nuclei using FIB milling.
•    Cryo-ET data acquisition of cell cycle regulatory proteins and kinetochores.
•    Cryo-ET data processing and 3-dimensional reconstruction.
•    To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
•    To present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
•    To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field.
•    To draft scientific papers, and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.
•    To contribute to the LMB’s mission in the public engagement of science, and the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.
•    To assist in the training of PhD Students and other members of the LMB.

Key responsibilities of Postdoc

Within the overall direction of the programme, the group, the remit of the project and in discussion with the Group Leader, you will make a significant input into determining the direction of the project within a 3-year lifespan.

• To plan your own work and objectives on a 12-month basis and manage your experimental work within the project along with your Supervisor.
• To work with limited supervision to identify, develop, modify and apply the necessary techniques to achieve the goals of the project.
• To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods where required.
• To ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.
• To contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, training of others and taking responsibility for the use of communal facilities.
• To enhance your research and generic skills through a tailored development programme.

Academic qualifications:

These should include a PhD in a relevant subject or due to complete PhD within 6 months.

How to Apply

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit job board

Closing date: 7 February 2020

Highlights

QUALIFICATION: PhD

JOB TYPE: Researcher

DISCIPLINE: Life Science

HOURS: Full Time

DURATION: Fixed Term

More Information: MRC