Research Associate in Mycobacterial Structural Biology
University of York, York, United Kingdom
Application deadline: 11 Dec 2020
A research associate post is available for up to 48 months in the York Structural Biology Laboratory, part of the Department of Chemistry; working in the group of Dr Jamie Blaza, a UKRI Future Leader Fellow, on the project ‘Energy metabolism and antibiotic action in the tuberculosis pathogen’. The role is interdisciplinary, integrating biophysics, microbiology and biochemistry. Applicants from any relevant background are encouraged to apply, as long as you have a passion for learning new techniques and subject matter.
You will investigate the structure and mechanisms of important respiratory chain complexes both in, and isolated from, living mycobacteria. You will use functional biophysical assays, electron cryo-microscopy (cryoEM), and microbiology to understand the mechanism of these complexes, how they integrate into the biology of the organism, and how these processes might be attacked to develop new antibiotics.
The Department of Chemistry is one of the largest and most successful departments at York and we are renowned internationally for our research. The department strives to provide a working environment that allows all staff and students to contribute fully, to flourish, and to excel.
Role
To conduct research under the supervision of senior colleagues, specifically to:
- Grow mycobacteria in different defined growth conditions to induce specific respiratory chains.
- Isolate the membrane-bound respiratory enzymes of interest in intact, active states.
- Carry out biochemical characterisation of enzymes.
- Subject isolated enzymes to high-resolution cryoEM.
- Combine different types of data to build a comprehensive understanding of how and why the enzymes function.
Where appropriate you will:
- assist in the identification and development of potential areas of research and research proposals
- provide guidance to other staff and students and coordinate the work of small research teams
- analyse and write up research results and disseminate them through publications, seminar and conference presentation, public engagement and outreach activities
- assist with undergraduate teaching
Skills, Experience & Qualification needed
- A first degree in a discipline related to molecular sciences
- PhD and experience of carrying out independent and collaborative research in biochemistry, biophysics, bacteriology, or a related field
- Knowledge of mycobacterial biology, membrane protein biochemistry, or bioenergetics and biophysical methods, such as cryoEM
- Competence at routine biochemical/microbiological techniques
- Have, or will shortly have, published rigorous scientific findings and the ability to explain how these findings advance their field.
- Highly developed oral and written communication skills including presenting at conferences
- Ability and experience to develop research objectives and carry out individual and collaborative projects, planning and prioritising own work in order to meet deadlines
- Highly motivated and professional and collaborative work ethic, committed to high quality research in this area and a willingness to support colleagues and students
- Ability to work within a team environment and independently using own initiative and with attention to detail
- Understanding of and commitment to Equality and Diversity.
Find out more and apply here.
