View Vacancy -- Research Support Officer - Structural Studies - Dr Kelly Nguyen - LMB 2081

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 a programme aimed at structural and biochemical analysis of telomere maintenance in eukaryotic cells

Main duties/ Key responsibilities:

•    To undertake research aimed at deciphering the molecular details of telomere maintenance in mammalian cells 
•    To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives
•    To contribute to lab-wide discussions and present work at lab meetings
•    To conribute to scientific papers and 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
•    Within the overall direction of the programme of the group and the remit of the project, and in discussion with the group leader, the post holder will make a significant input into determining the direction of the project. 
•    To plan their own work and objectives on a 12-month basis and will manage their experimental work within the project along with their supervisor.
•    To aid in the smooth running of the laboratory, i.e., arranging repair of broken machines. Make sure LMB Health and Safety rules are practiced in the lab.
•    To ensure the research is carried in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local polices and legal requirements.
•    To identify new equipment which will assist the group programme and to present argued cases for new purchases.

Working relationships: 

The postholder will report to Dr Kelly Nguyen and will interact and collaborate with other postdoctoral scientists, research support staff and students in the Group and across the LMB, and with external Groups as necessary.

Education / qualifications / training required: 
Essential: PhD in structural biology or similar

Desirable: Postdoctoral experience

Previous work experience required: 
Essential: Worked in a laboratory of high scientific standard with a well-respected international reputation.

Desirable: Written or co-written papers published in peer reviewed journals of high standard

Knowledge and experience: 
Essential: Structural biology, molecular biology, cloning, protein expression and purification, biochemistry

Desirable: Computational skills: cryo-EM and/or X-ray diffraction data collection and processing, protein structure solution and refinement, molecular graphics programs, Unix

Personal skills / behaviours / qualities: 
Essential: Is capable of working independently, but in collaboration with other members of the group. 

Desirable: Experience in mentoring students