View Vacancy -- MRC Postdoctoral Research Scientist LMS 2711

Overall purpose:

The Single Molecule Imaging Group works at the intersection of single molecule imaging, biophysics, mechanobiology and cellular biology to explore the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation. The group uses single-molecule fluorescence and mechanical manipulation with optical tweezers to analyse the interaction of proteins and DNA/RNA, elucidate their dynamics and elucidating molecular mechanisms. We use additional interdisciplinary approaches to investigate these mechanisms across scales (from molecules to cells).

We are seeking a talented postdoctoral research scientist with a background in structural biology and biochemistry. The post holder will be a key member of our team investigating the structural mechanism of ATP-dependent chromatin remodellers. The work will involve the expression and purification of chromatin remodelling complexes, with the aim of obtaining high-resolution single-particle cryo-electron microscopy structures to reveal functional mechanistic insights into how these chromatin remodelling complexes operate. The successful candidate will have an opportunity to work in a diverse team that brings together physicists, chemists and biologists to work on problems that are key to human health. There are excellent opportunities for development and training. We offer excellent mentoring and support to reach your career goals. The post holder will have the opportunity to liaise with an extensive network of collaborators, attend scientific conferences, and publish the results of their work in leading journals.

Key skills:

• Background in Structural biology and Biochemistry
• Experience with expressing and purifying multi-subunit protein complexes
• Experience of performing cryo-electron microscopy experiments
• Experience in analysing structural data to elucidate biological mechanisms
• Working knowledge of protein-DNA interactions

Main Responsibilities:

• To use insect-cell based systems to over-express chromatin remodelling complexes
• To purify chromatin remodelling complexes for structural, biochemical, and single-molecule imaging studies
• To perform single-particle cryo-electron microscopy-based experiments to obtain high resolution structures of chromatin remodelling complexes
• To interoperate structural data to uncover functional mechanisms of how these chromatin remodellers function
• To prepare work for publication and grant submissions
• To present at seminars and conferences, as necessary
• To co-supervise MSc and PhD students
• Willingness to work out of normal working hours (including weekends) if the requirements of the project demand
• To contribute to the smooth running of the Group’s/Unit’s laboratories and, facilities with other scientists, technicians and students within the laboratories
• To assist in the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate research students and research assistants as required
• To comply with the Institute, College, Division, and Unit safety practices and to attend courses on safety when appropriate
• Any other duties as may be deemed reasonable by Head of group as well as Head of Division

Education / Qualifications / Training required (will be assessed from the application form):

 Essential:

• PhD in Structural Biology and/or Biochemistry (or a closely related discipline) 

Knowledge and experience (will be assessed from the application form and at the interview):

Essential:

• Excellent skills in structural biology and biochemistry
• Previous experience with using insect cell-based systems to express multi-subunit protein complexes, and experience with protein purification
• Previous experience in grid preparation for cryo-electron microscopy experiments
• Previous experience of using cryo-electron microscopes
• Previous experience in cryo-electron microscopy data analysis and model building with a track record of relevant publications and presentations
• Excellent written communication skills in English and the ability to write clearly for publication

Desirable:

• Previous experience with working with ATP-dependent chromatin remodelling complexes
• Proven experience collaborating with single-molecule biophysicists, resulting in a strong track record of publications

Personal Skills / Behaviours / Qualities (will be assessed at the interview):

Essential:

• Ability to conduct reproducible research
• Ability to conduct a detailed review of recent literature
• Ability to develop and apply new concepts
• Creative approach to problem-solving
• Excellent verbal communication skills in English and the ability to deal with a wide range of people
• Ability to direct the work of a small research team and motivate others to produce a high standard of work
• Ability to organise own work with minimal supervision
• Ability to prioritise own work in response to deadlines
• Advanced computer skills, including word-processing, spreadsheets and the internet
• Willingness to work as part of a team and to be open-minded and cooperative
• Flexible attitude towards work
• Discipline and regard for confidentiality and security at all times
• Willingness to undertake any necessary training for the role

Additional information:

Applicants should submit a CV, names and contacts of two scientific references along with a cover letter stating why you are applying for this role (providing evidence against the requirements of the job as per the job description and person specification). Applications without a cover letter will not be accepted. Please quote reference number LMS 2711.

Please note that applications may be reviewed by both LMS and Imperial staff