At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to explore DNA transfer mechanisms using advanced structural biology techniques.
- Company: University of Leicester, a vibrant and multicultural academic community.
- Benefits: Three-year funded position with access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for independent research and career growth.
- Why this job: Make groundbreaking discoveries in molecular biology while developing your expertise.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in protein structure determination required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The AKV lab is seeking to recruit a highly motivated and enthusiastic Postdoc/Research Associate to join our group and contribute to elucidating the molecular mechanisms of DNA transfer in prokaryotes, with a particular focus on the interplay between membrane-embedded complexes and DNA-repair machineries. The project will involve extensive use of membrane protein biochemistry and single particle cryo-EM to characterize the dynamic interplay between membrane integrated complexes and DNA-repair complexes in mediating transfer of genetic material between cells.
About them: The AKV-lab is based at the Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology (LISCB) and the Molecular and Cell Biology Division (MCB), University of Leicester, UK. The University offers excellent support for international researchers and fosters a vibrant, multicultural academic community. Their interdisciplinary research environment provides access to state-of-the-art facilities for biochemistry, microbiology, X-ray crystallography, and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), including an in-house Titan Krios 300 keV microscope.
The postholder will have the opportunity to develop expertise in membrane protein biochemistry, protein–DNA complex characterisation, cryo-EM, and complementary biophysical and biochemical methods. You will lead an independent research project, progressing from initial cloning to the purification of membrane protein complexes, followed by structure determination and biochemical/biophysical mechanistic analysis. This project will focus on complex, multi-component membrane assemblies and protein-DNA complexes involved in DNA-repair, investigated in both in-vitro and live-cell environments. The research will employ a diverse array of structural biology techniques, including single-particle cryo-EM, cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET), cross-linking mass spectrometry, molecular microbiology, bioinformatics and live-cell imaging.
About the position: This postdoctoral position is funded by the European Advanced Multiscale Biological imaging with European Research infrastructures (AMBER) program for 3 years and the successful candidate will be based at LISCB/MCB, UK working under the supervision of Dr. Abhinav Koyamangalath Vadakkepat and Dr. Amanda Chaplin. The last date of application is 7th December. Since the application involves the candidate to apply with an extensive proposal, interested candidates are advised to contact Dr Abhinav Koyamangalath Vadakkepat, MCB & LISCB, University of Leicester (akv10@leicester.ac.uk) as early as possible.
Candidate profile:
- Essential criteria:
- PhD in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a closely related discipline
- Within eight years of PhD submission
- Must not have resided or undertaken their principal activity (work, study, etc.) in the UK for more than 12 months within the three years immediately preceding the call deadline
- Demonstrable experience in designing and executing workflows for protein structure determination, encompassing molecular biology and biochemical techniques such as DNA cloning, mutagenesis, protein purification and structural studies.
- Strong motivation to address fundamental biological questions and contribute to innovative research directions
- Excellent teamworking, communication, and organisational skills, with the ability to work independently within a collaborative research environment
- Expertise in membrane protein expression and purification
- Familiarity with cryo-EM workflows, including sample preparation, data collection, and processing
Informal Enquiries: For informal discussions regarding this position or future opportunities, please contact: Dr Abhinav Koyamangalath Vadakkepat, MCB & LISCB, University of Leicester (akv10@leicester.ac.uk) and Dr Tennie Videler (hv33@le.ac.uk).
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Structural Biology at Institute for Structural and Chemical [...] in Leicester employer: Instruct-ERIC
The Institute for Structural and Chemical Biology at the University of Leicester is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and multicultural academic community that supports international researchers. With access to cutting-edge facilities and a collaborative work culture, employees are encouraged to develop their expertise in structural biology while leading independent research projects that contribute to significant scientific advancements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Structural Biology at Institute for Structural and Chemical [...] in Leicester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former researchers in the AKV lab or similar fields. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into their research. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion! When you get the chance, share your excitement about structural biology and how it aligns with your career goals. Enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Structural Biology at Institute for Structural and Chemical [...] in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Proposal:Make sure your application proposal is specifically tailored to the project at the AKV lab. Highlight your relevant experience in structural biology and how it aligns with their focus on DNA transfer mechanisms.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t hold back on showcasing your skills! Emphasise your expertise in membrane protein biochemistry and cryo-EM, as these are key components of the role. Use specific examples from your past work to illustrate your capabilities.
Reach Out Early:If you have questions or need clarification, don’t hesitate to contact Dr Abhinav Koyamangalath Vadakkepat early in the process. This shows initiative and can help you refine your application.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website before the deadline on 7th December. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Instruct-ERIC
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in structural biology, especially related to DNA transfer and membrane protein biochemistry. Familiarise yourself with the AKV lab's recent publications and be ready to discuss how your expertise aligns with their research focus.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about specific techniques like cryo-EM, protein purification, and molecular biology workflows. Brush up on your knowledge of these methods and be prepared to explain your previous experiences with them, including any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires excellent teamwork skills, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past projects. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve contributed to a positive team environment, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the lab’s current projects, future directions, and the collaborative environment at LISCB. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
