Jobs in Structural Biology and Related Fields

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics

King's College London, London, United Kingdom

Application deadline: 04 Aug 2021

Kings College London are looking for a postdoctoral scientist

ABOUT THEM

Their lab specialises in understanding the detailed mechanisms of interaction between proteins and RNA, with a major focus on the La-related proteins (LARPs). They use a combination of structural biology, biophysics and biochemistry techniques and work closely with interdisciplinary collaborators to test hypotheses in the context of cell biology and model organisms.

THEY ARE LOOKING FOR

A skilled, motivated and enthusiastic postdoctoral candidate with a strong interest in protein-RNA interactions and biophysics. The project will focus on the LARPs involved as key regulators of gene expression via a variety of mechanisms.

The successful applicant will find themselves working in a dynamic, interdisciplinary and exciting research environment and will be based in the Randall Centre on the Guy’s Campus, London, UK. The project will be supported by the state-of-the-art infrastructure of the Centre for Biomolecular Spectroscopy and the Randall Centre.

This is a new position funded by the Leverhulme Trust and is available immediately

This post will be offered on a fixed-term contract for 12 months with possibility for further extension for a further 2 years.

This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent

Apply Here

Key responsibilities

1. Contribute to the research project as agreed with the principal investigators.  
2. Carry out molecular biology and protein biochemistry work as required by the project. 
3. Carry out integrated structural biology, biochemistry and biophysical work as required by the project. 
4. When required perform data acquisition and/or analyses at external locations (e.g. various synchrotrons in UK and Europe, Crick Institute etc.) 
5. Maintain up-to-date, accurate and comprehensive laboratory notebooks and undertake data analysis. 
6. Prepare reports on results for written and verbal presentation to the principal investigator and for regular laboratory meetings. 
7. Work with the principal investigator to prepare manuscripts based on the work for publication. 
8. Follow the relevant research literature through a process of self-directed enquiry and continuing education. 
9. Adhere to any Safety procedures and Risk Assessment requirements and safe working practices. 
10. Contribute to the supervision and training of junior staff and students. 
11. Contribute to laboratory maintenance and administration (including health and safety issues, equipment maintenance, inventory control, ordering). 
12. Any other duties as agreed with the direct supervisor. 

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.  

Skills, knowledge, and experience 

Essential criteria 

1. Experience in protein expression and purification for structural and biophysical studies 
2. Experience in molecular biology techniques 
3. Extensive experience in NMR spectroscopy of protein or RNA 
4. Knowledge and competency in a wide range of biophysical techniques for macromolecular characterisation and interactions ( e.g. CD, fluorescence spectroscopy, EMSA, titration calorimetry, mass spectrometry, SAXS, X-ray crystallography) 
5. Self- motivated, able to work independently and as part of a team 
6. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written  

Desirable criteria 

1. Experience and background in protein-RNA interactions 
2. Knowledge and experience in integrated structural biology 
3. Knowledge and experience in intrinsically disordered proteins 
4. Prior experience with SAXS/SANS
5. Ability to develop alternative technologies 

There is no expectation that candidates have experience in all these fields, and training will be provided. 

This is a new position funded by the Leverhulme Trust and is available immediately.

This post is available for 3 years. It will be offered on a fixed-term contract for 12 months in the first instance with possibility for further extension for a further 2 years. This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent.  

Contact details: Professor Sasi Conte, sasi.conte@kcl.ac.uk / +44 (0)20 7848 6194.

Applications will start to be evaluated on 4th August 2021 but the position will remain open until the job is filled, please contact Prof. Sasi Conte 

Apply for the role here.