View Vacancy -- Investigator Scientist - Structural Studies - Dr Tanmay Bharat - LMB 2572

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 Dr Tanmay Bharat at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB).

To work within the group of Tanmay Bharat at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme aimed at studying Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation. Specifically, to undertake research to investigate P. aeruginosa biofilms using electron cryotomography (cryo-ET) of focused ion beam (FIB) milled multicellular specimens. The cryo-ET data will then be scrutinised with the entire suite of in situ structural biology tools developed in Tanmay Bharat’s laboratory, including subtomogram averaging structure determination. There will be lots of opportunities to collaborate with microbiologists and structural biologists in the vibrant community of the LMB. We have a fleet of high-end machines (TEMs / FIB-SEMs / cryo-LMs / HPFs) available for the successful candidate to use for this project.

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.

To be a focus of expertise on cryo-FIB-SEM technology.

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 Bharat 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.

Academic qualifications and experience:

PhD in a relevant biological subject.

Significant postdoctoral research experience in cryo-FIB-SEM, cryo-ET and subtomogram averaging structure determination

Technical skills and expertise:

Experience of and proven ability to perform techniques relevant to the project, and knowledge of the field.  Particularly useful would be experience of cryo-FIB-SEM, cryo-ET and subtomogram averaging structure determination.

Track record of research:

This will include achievements, and significant contributions to published papers.

Other relevant evidence of:

• Commitment.
• Originality.
• Ability to communicate.
• Working with others.

Additional information:

Candidates with experience in cryo-ET, FIB milling or subtomogram averaging should apply. Candidates who have used a Zeiss Crossbeam, or TFS Arctis/Aquilos/Hydra and Titan Krioses are needed.

You must at all times carry out your responsibilities with due regard to the UKRI: 
•    Code of Conduct
•    Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
•    Health and Safety policy
•    Data Protection policy

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

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, the MRC and UKRI.  

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.