Investigator Scientist - Structural Studies - Dr Chris Tate - LMB 1220

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 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.  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.

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.

Overall purpose:

To work within the Group of Drs Tate, Aricescu and Hegde at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB).
To lead one or more projects within an overall programme on the development of a platform for members of the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) to raise camelid antibodies to protein/RNA targets. It is anticipated that LMB members will supply purified targets in a stable state and high affinity nanobodies will then be produced. The nanobodies will then be used to drive a deeper understanding of biological processes being studied at the LMB.
To play a major role in the work of the Research Groups, through the conduct of research, introduction of new ideas, dissemination of research results, support and training of others.
To be a focus of expertise on the isolation, production and characterisation of nanobodies, maintaining clones and libraries, and effective documentation of clones and libraries in a database

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 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 including by working in collaboration with others to achieve joint research projects.
•    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 present your work at seminars within the Laboratory and at external meetings.
•    To train Students, Postdoctoral Scientists and others and undertake the 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 Tate 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.

Additional information:

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post.  All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post and the MRC.