Postdoctoral Fellow - Structural Biology and Cytoskeletal Remodeling in London

The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Their world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions. The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines. A space where the brightest minds can pursue big and bold ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions.

The Chaaban lab is seeking a curious and motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the Cytoskeletal Coordination Laboratory, opening in January 2027 at the Francis Crick Institute. The lab investigates how molecular machines build, remodel and dismantle the cytoskeleton, particularly during cell division.

The role:

• The successful candidate will investigate how protein machines remodel microtubules.
• The project will address two linked questions: how these complexes assemble and engage microtubules to couple chemical energy to structural changes, and how interactions with partner proteins regulate their activity.
• Cryo-electron microscopy will be a major component of the project, alongside reconstitution with purified proteins and fluorescence microscopy.
• You will be developing and leading a research project investigating the molecular mechanisms of cytoskeletal remodeling.
• Producing and characterizing recombinant proteins and protein complexes, and establishing assays to measure their interactions and activity.
• Using cryo-EM and computational image analysis to investigate the organisation and conformational states of molecular assemblies.
• Integrating structural findings with biochemical and fluorescence microscopy experiments to test mechanistic hypotheses.
• Analysing and documenting experiments rigorously, presenting findings at scientific meetings, and contributing to manuscripts and publications.

Requirements:

• A PhD, or a PhD in the final stages of submission, in structural biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics, or a related discipline.
• Experimental expertise in protein biochemistry and cryo-EM, including sample preparation and data collection.
• Strong interest in combining these approaches with quantitative fluorescence microscopy.
• Experience designing experiments, applying appropriate statistical analysis, critically interpreting data and troubleshooting research problems.
• Evidence of scientific initiative and the ability to develop and pursue research questions independently.
• Evidence of communicating research clearly through scientific writing and presentations.
• A collaborative approach to research and the ability to work effectively with colleagues.
• Experience in single-particle image processing and model building (desirable).

Application closing date: 15th of November 2026 at 23:59.