View Vacancy -- Postdoctoral Scientist – PNAC – Dr Andrew McKenzie – LMB 174

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably X-ray crystallography of proteins, 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.  We aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years.

There are four scientific Divisions - Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology.  However, scientific collaboration between the different Divisions is extensive.  Scientists are well supported by excellent scientific facilities and by the LMB Operations Group which maintains the core infrastructure and services of the institute.

With the new laboratory 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.

Background

The development of immuno-regulatory lymphocytes from haematopoietic stem cells is essential for the protection of the host from pathogens. The recent discovery of novel innate lymphoid cell subsets that differentiate from common lymphoid precursors has added further complexity to these developmental pathways. This programme of cell differentiation is mediated by a repertoire of transcription factors. The candidate will apply techniques such as RNAseq, ChIP-seq, chromosome conformation capture (3C - HiC) and BioID to identify factors that regulate innate lymphocyte development.

The ILC family now includes ILC1 (IFN-expressing NK cells), ILC2 (IL-5 and IL-13-expressing) and ILC3 (IL-22 and IL-17-expressing cells). Due to their recent discovery our knowledge of these cells is still rather rudimentary, but major roles are emerging for ILCs in protective immunity against parasitic helminths (ILC2) and bacteria (ILC1 and ILC3), and in autoimmune disorders (ILC1 and ILC3) and allergic disease (ILC2). We have identified a number of transcription factors (such as Rora and Bcl11b) that are essential for ILC2 development, and we now wish to understand the molecular mechanisms through which they mediate ILC differentiation.

Depending on qualifications and experience, this appointment will be made as either Postdoctoral Scientist or Investigator Scientist.

Postdoctoral Scientist

Overall purpose:

To work within the Group of Dr Andrew McKenzie at the Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme aimed at investigating immune and haematopoetic disorders, specifically to define and characterise the transcriptional regulation of innate lymphoid cells.

Main duties:

• To undertake research aimed at elucidating the molecular regulation of lymphocyte development.
• 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:

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 the lifespan of the project.

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 polices 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 use of communal facilities.

To enhance your research and generic skills through a tailored development programme.

Working relationships:

You will report to Dr Andrew McKenzie and will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support Staff and Students, not only in your Group, but also across the LMB and with external Groups as necessary.

Additional information:

This is a training and development position for a Postdoctoral Scientist who has recently completed their doctoral studies, is moving into a new research discipline or has limited experience of key transferable skills. We support Postdoctoral Scientists with a range of formal and on-the-job training, including:

• MRC training courses.
• External training and personal development courses.
• One-to-one training with your Supervisor and other Scientists.

You will commit to undertaking the following:
• Developing and following a personal development plan.
• Attending training courses.
• Identifying additional training which will support you to develop your career.

Investigator Scientist

Overall purpose:

To work within the Group of Dr Andrew McKenzie at the Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB).

To lead one or more projects to define and characterise the transcriptional regulation of innate lymphoid cells within an overall programme investigating immune and haematopoetic disorders.

To play a major role in the work of the Research Group, through the conduct of research, introduction of new ideas, dissemination of research results, support and training of others.

Main duties:

Under the general leadership of the Group Leader, to be responsible for all aspects of the research projects, including defining the direction of the work, conducting the research, analysing the data, preparing the work for publication and disseminating the results at meetings.

• To present your work at seminars within the Laboratory and at external meetings.
• To contribute to Laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the Laboratory, particularly in the use of new techniques or new equipment.
• To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
• To keep up to date with developments in the field, proposing or implementing changes of direction as necessary.
• To prepare the research for publication.
• To work in collaboration with others to achieve joint research projects.
• To train Students, Postdoctoral Scientists and others and line management of Group members where appropriate.
• To contribute to the MRC’s engagement with the public and in the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.

Key Responsibilities:

The key responsibility is to undertake cutting edge research, aimed at key questions within the remit of the Research Group. You will be expected to provide the intellectual energy and independent thinking necessary to deliver the research and to play a major role in shaping the overall aims and success of the group.

While some advice will be available from others in the Laboratory, you will be expected to have the skill and understanding to be able to act independently in solving problems, many of which may require novel approaches. This will require the integration of different activities to ensure the successful delivery of the research projects.

To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches.

To interact effectively with a wide range of Staff, Students and others to ensure the smooth running of the Research Group. This will include setting an example in the effective use of resources, training others in methods and use of equipment and taking responsibility for the use of communal facilities.

To potentially take on specific responsibilities for managing equipment.

To write scientific papers and to present at internal meetings and at conferences.

To ensure the research is conducted in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.

To recognise opportunities for the creation of intellectual property and to cooperate in patent protection and in exploitation.

To identify new equipment which will assist the Group programme and to present argued cases for new purchases.

To identify opportunities for additional funding and to apply for external grants where appropriate.
Where line management responsibilities are undertaken, these responsibilities, including staff development and performance management, should be applied in accordance with the MRC’s policies and procedures. Training will be provided if required.

Working relationships:

You will report to Dr Andrew McKenzie and will liaise with other Research Support Staff, Postdoctoral Scientists and Students, not only in your Group, but also across the LMB and with external collaborators.

Postdoctoral Scientist

Education / Qualifications / Training required:

Essential: PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry or immunology or due to complete doctoral studies within 6 months of applying.

Previous work experience required:

Essential:
•  A strong background in molecular biology techniques e.g. RNAseq, ChIP-seq, 3C/4C/5C, RT-PCR, protein production and purification, western analysis, protein proximity assays (BioID or APEX).
•  Proven experience in the following procedures:
   o Retroviral transduction of cell lines and primary cells.
   o Molecular cloning.
   o Cell culture techniques for primary cells.

Desirable:
•  In vivo analysis of haematopoiesis using irradiation bone marrow chimeras.
•  Analysis and purification of haematopoietic cells.
•  Barcoding of stem cells.
•  Experience in multi-colour flow cytometry including extracellular and intracellular staining, and cell sorting.
•  Proficiency with FlowJo, Prism and image processing software.

Knowledge and experience:

Creativity and Initiative
Essential:
•  Ability to carry out experimental programme.
•  Demonstrated ability to develop novel experimental approaches e.g. new methodologies and techniques.
•  Ability to contribute ideas and provide support to other projects in the Groups.

Desirable: Has developed new techniques/methodologies which have added value to scientific work.

Independent working
Essential: Proven skills in working independently to solve experimental problems.

Verbal and written communication skills
Essential:
•  Experience in presenting scientific work, both written and orally.
•  Publication in internationally recognised scientific journals.

Mentoring
Desirable: Has experience of training others "on the job".

Collaborations/ Influencing Skills
Essential: Has strong skills and experience in working collaboratively as a member of a team.

Personal skills/behaviours/qualities:

Essential: Motivated individual with a strong desire for self and team development.

Investigator Scientist

Education / Qualifications / Training required:

Essential: PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry or immunology.

Previous work experience required:

Essential: Significant postdoctoral experience in analysis of transcriptional regulation, with the production of novel results that are publishable in internationally recognised scientific journals.

Knowledge and experience:

Specific Research Skills
Essential:
• A strong background in molecular biology techniques e.g. RNAseq, ChIP-seq, 3C/4C/5C, qRT-PCR, protein production and purification, western analysis, protein proximity assays (BioID or APEX).
• Proven experience in the following procedures:
   o Retroviral transduction of cell lines and primary cells.
   o Molecular cloning experience. 
   o Cell culture techniques for primary cells.

Desirable:
•  In vivo analysis of haematopoiesis using irradiation bone marrow chimeras.
•  Analysis and purification of haematopoietic cells. Barcoding of stem cells.
•  Experience in multi-colour flow cytometry including extracellular and intracellular staining, and cell sorting.
•  Proficiency with FlowJo, Prism and image v software.

Creativity and Initiative
Essential:
•  Proven experience in the design and undertaking of a novel and creative experimental research programme.
•  Has developed new techniques/methodologies which have added value to scientific work.

Desirable: Has independent scientific recognition in relevant research area.

Independent working
Essential: Proven skills in working independently to solve experimental problems.

Verbal and written communication skills

Essential:
•   Experience in presenting scientific work, both written and orally at international conferences.
•   Publication in internationally recognised journals

Desirable: Strong record of first author publications in high-impact journals relevant to the field.

Mentoring
Essential: Has experience of training others "on the job".
Desirable: Line management or supervision experience.

Collaborations/ Influencing Skills
Essential: Has strong skills in and experience of working collaboratively as a member of a team.

Intellectual Property
Essential: Understanding of how research activities are affected by and will impact on MRC’s mission statements on knowledge transfer.

Personal skills/behaviours/qualities:

Essential:
•  Excellent standards of research conduct.
•  Highly-motivated.
•  Strong team player.
•  Capable of taking independent decisions.
•  Collaborative.