At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on protein quality control in yeast and human cells.
- Company: Join the Miller Lab at the University of Dundee, a hub for innovative life sciences research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Engage in a dynamic research team and mentor students while advancing your career.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in understanding cellular mechanisms and contribute to scientific advancements.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field with expertise in yeast genetics and ribosome biology.
The predicted salary is between 37174 - 40497 £ per year.
The Miller Lab at the University of Dundee is seeking an independent and ambitious Postdoctoral Research Assistant to study the conserved cellular machinery that mediates biogenesis of secreted and membrane proteins, focusing on protein quality control in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). This is a full-time, fixed-term appointment for two years in the first instance. The research project focuses on the early stages of secretory protein synthesis and how specific conditions trigger a stress-response pathway known as ER-associated ribosome-associated quality control (ER-RQC). The project aims to understand how cells maintain quality control during protein biogenesis by tuning translation to prevent ribosome collisions, how ribosome collisions are sensed and resolved, and how cells respond to this quality control event. The lab will utilize genetic approaches in yeast to dissect the molecular mechanisms governing ER-RQC, define the spectrum of protein clients subject to this pathway, and translate these findings into human cell models.
Principal duties and responsibilities include:
- Reporting directly to Prof. Miller and undertaking research aimed at dissecting the mechanisms of ER-RQC in yeast and human cells.
- Working independently to identify, develop, and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue research objectives, including yeast genetics, biochemistry, and ribosome profiling.
- Interacting with other laboratories and Divisions within the Faculty of Life Sciences (FLS) / School of Life Sciences (SLS) to deliver research outputs.
- Presenting scientific work at internal FLS seminars and external meetings.
- Drafting scientific papers and contributing to the overall preparation of research for publication.
- Working as part of a small team alongside research support staff, and assisting in the supervision and training of Honours, MSc, and PhD students.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A PhD in a relevant subject area (expertise in yeast genetics and ribosome biology is particularly valued).
- Minimal requirement of a major contribution to at least one paper in a peer-reviewed journal.
- Demonstrated experience in independently running a research project that reflects creativity and initiative.
Required Expertise/Skills:
- Strong expertise in both yeast genetics/biochemistry, ribosome biology, and human cell models.
- Experience with standard molecular biology techniques.
- Advantageous experience in yeast genetics, biochemistry, ribosome profiling, and mRNA analyses.
- Quantitative analytical skills, including statistical analysis.
- Excellent communication skills for scientific drafting, presentations, and student mentoring.
Salary Details: £37,174 to £40,497 per annum (Grade 7)
Application Deadline: 31st August 2026
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Dundee employer: RFCSR
Imperial College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and interdisciplinary research. As a Research Associate, you will have access to cutting-edge facilities and the opportunity for professional growth through mentorship and publishing your findings, all while contributing to impactful advancements in biomedical engineering within a prestigious academic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Dundee
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We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Dundee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show RFCSR that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at RFCSR.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that RFCSR does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at RFCSR. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
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Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at RFCSR. This shows your passion for the industry!
