View Vacancy -- Postdoctoral Scientist - Cell Biology - Dr Buzz Baum - LMB 1871

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 opening of our new laboratory the LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both young 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 Buzz Baum’s group at the Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) as part of a research team interested in exploring archaeal cell biology and in using insights from archaea to shed light on the evolution of the eukaryotic cell. More specifically, to undertake research exploring conserved changes in cell organisation that accompany cell division cycle progression in Sulfolobus and in other archaea. 

The post-holder’s main task will be: i) carry out a forward genetic screen for genes involved in cell cycle progression in Sulfolobus, ii) to characterize proteins controlling key changes in cell organisation that accompany passage through the cell division cycle in Sulfolobus.

The post-holder should have a background in molecular biology, genetics, and microbiology. Experience with light and super-resolution microscopy is essential. Experience in studying changes in cell organization that accompany cell cycle progression in a model organism will be useful.

Main duties:

•    To undertake research aimed at identifying and characterising the key cell biological events and regulators of the cell division cycle in Sulfolobus.
•    To develop and apply a broad range of established and novel techniques to pursue the research objectives.
•    To contribute to the life of the laboratory.
•    To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field. 
•    To communicate the fruits of this research by giving talks at the LMB and beyond and by helping to draft and complete scientific papers 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:

To work with the Group Leader to develop an ambitious research programme, and to manage day to day progress in consultation with the Group Leader.

To be pro-active in identifying, developing, modifying and applying the techniques and methods required to achieve the goals of the project.

To ensure that research is carried out in accordance to the highest ethical standards 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 use of communal facilities.

To help ensure a supportive and constructive atmosphere for research in the team.

To develop research and generic skills that will help to deliver the research programme. 

Working relationships: 

You will report to Dr Buzz Baum 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 3-year training and development position for a Postdoctoral Scientist who has recently completed their doctoral studies. 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.

Academic qualifications: 

A PhD in a relevant subject or due to complete within 6 months. For the envisioned project, relevant subjects for a PhD would include study of the cell cycle in a single celled model organism using genetics and live cell imaging.

Technical skills and expertise:

Experience of and ability to perform techniques relevant to the project. Particularly useful will be experience in using a combination of genetics and cell biology methods, in using light microscopy and super-resolution microscopy to study cell organisation, quantitative methods, and in genetic screening approaches.

Track record of research:

This will include achievements and contributions to talks/posters and published papers.

Other relevant evidence of: 

•    Commitment and tenacity.
•    Intelligence and creativity.
•    Ability to communicate.
•    Working with others.