View Vacancy -- Scientific Researcher - Structural Studies - Dr Sjors Scheres - LMB 2600

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 Sjors Scheres at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme aimed at the structural and functional characterisation of amyloids in neurodegeneration Specifically, to undertake research to investigate the design and testing of structure-specific amyloid binders.

The Scheres group has previously shown that different amyloid structures of a given protein (e.g. tau or alpha-synuclein) characterise different neurodegenerative diseases. Currently, the only experimental method to distinguish different amyloid structures if cryo-EM. This project aims to design and test structure-specific amyloid binders using a combination of deep-learning protein design and experimental implementation of binding assays to test the designed binders. 

Main duties:

•    To undertake research aimed at the design and testing of structure-specific amyloid binders.
•    To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
•    To present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
•    To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field. 
•    Where appropriate, to draft scientific papers, and contribute 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.

Key responsibilities:

To plan your own work and objectives and manage your experimental work within the project along with your Supervisor.

To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods where required.

To ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good practice 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. 

Working relationships: 

You will report to Dr Sjors Scheres 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.

Academic qualifications: 

These should include a PhD in a relevant subject or due to complete PhD within 6 months.

Technical skills and expertise:

Experience of and ability to perform techniques relevant to the project.  It is essential for this project to have profound expertise in machine-learning, including protein design, as well as experience in the wetlab with the design and implementation of high-throughput assays for testing the designed binders. 

Track record of research:

This will include achievements, and contributions to published papers.

Other relevant evidence of: 

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

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.