At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a world-class lab to research Parkinson's disease and develop innovative therapies.
- Company: MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit at the University of Dundee.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, interdisciplinary training, and opportunities for public engagement.
- Other info: Dynamic, diverse environment with excellent career growth and networking opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neurodegenerative research and build your international reputation.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field with strong interest in signal transduction and team collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 37174 - 42882 £ per year.
Overview
Postdoctoral Research Assistant - UOD2261
Posted on 14 May 2026 | Reference: UOD2261
This is a fixed-term appointment for 16 months. The successful applicant will join Varsha Singh's group in the Division of Molecular Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, with a start date of 1 September 2026. Applications made on a part-time basis for this role will/will not be considered.
Role purpose: The Singh lab in the Division of Molecular Microbiology at the University of Dundee (Varsha Singh) is looking for applicants who have a Ph.D. and experience in liquid or gas chromatography and genetics, including gene editing.
Reference: UOD2261
Responsibilities
- Report to Dr Singh and support the research program in the Singh lab.
- Undertake research aimed at identifying odours from various bacteria and complex organic matter.
- Perform genetic manipulation in bacteria and Caenorhabditis elegans nematodes to understand signaling via odorant or olfactory G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs).
- Work independently to identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
- Interact with other lab and divisional members within the School of Life Sciences.
- Assist in the training and supervision of students.
Qualifications and experience
- PhD in life sciences (or expected to have completed a PhD within a short time frame) is essential.
- Experience with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) or gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is essential.
- Experience with gene editing using CRISPR-CAS system is essential.
- Quantitative analytical skills, including statistical analysis, are desirable.
- Experience with independently running a project that demonstrates creativity and initiative is desirable.
About the university and role
We are one of the UK's leading universities, internationally recognised for our expertise across a range of disciplines and research breakthroughs in multiple areas, including science, medicine and engineering. Our purpose is to transform lives locally and globally, which we do as a community of staff, students and alumni.
Professional Services directorates are key to delivering the University strategy and driving change across the University.
For further information about this position please contact Varsha Singh at [emailprotected].
How to apply
Apply as an external candidate: If you do not currently work for the University of Dundee, you can apply using this button.
If you are currently working for the University of Dundee, you can apply via OneUniversity using this button. Navigate to ‘My Recruitment’, then ‘Available Jobs'.
Note: Our recruitment service is provided by a third party.
Accessibility: If you are encountering barriers in relation to accessibility, please review the accessibility statement for help and assistance.
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Dundee employer: University of Dundee
The MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit at the University of Dundee offers an exceptional work environment for Postdoctoral Research Assistants, characterised by a commitment to world-class research and interdisciplinary collaboration. Employees benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, opportunities for professional development through UK DRI and EMBO networks, and a supportive culture that values diversity and inclusion. This role not only allows for significant contributions to groundbreaking research in neurodegenerative diseases but also fosters personal growth within a vibrant, multinational community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Dundee
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the MRC PPU or the School of Life Sciences. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into the latest research on PINK1 and Parkinson's disease. Show us that you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present your research ideas or past work, so make sure you can communicate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Dundee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Postdoctoral Research Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience in signalling, cell biology, or any specific techniques mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for research shine through! Talk about your interest in Parkinson's disease and how your background aligns with our goals at the MRC PPU. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the field.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless necessary. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials correctly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Dundee
✨Know Your Research
Before the interview, dive deep into the latest research from the Muqit lab and the MRC PPU. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and ongoing projects, especially those related to PINK1 and neurodegenerative diseases. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the technical nature of the role, be ready to discuss your expertise in areas like CRISPR gene-editing, proteomics, or mouse neurobiology. Brush up on relevant methodologies and be prepared to explain how you've applied them in your previous work. This will demonstrate your capability and readiness for the challenges ahead.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
The MRC PPU values collaboration, so be sure to highlight your experiences working in teams. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in research settings, particularly in interdisciplinary projects. This will showcase your ability to thrive in a dynamic, multi-national environment.
✨Engage with Public Engagement Initiatives
Since the lab encourages involvement in public engagement, think about how you can contribute to this aspect. Prepare to discuss any past experiences you have in communicating science to non-experts or engaging with the community. This will reflect your commitment to making science accessible and impactful.