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Role

We are looking for a highly motivated Research Associate to work on a BBSRC-funded project aimed at characterising collisions of the bacterial replication machinery with protein obstacles. This project will exploit the biochemical tractability of Escherichia coli to investigate fundamental aspects of DNA replication at the DNA, protein and complex/super-complex level. The project will focus on studying the mechanistic consequences of replication obstacles for replisomes, resolution of replisome collisions by helicases, and understanding the impact of replication-transcription conflicts on genome duplication. Developing a full molecular understanding of replisome-obstacle collisions is currently a major challenge in the field because they can impede replication fork progression and cause genome instability.

This project will involve a range of methodologies in biochemistry and structural biology, specifically electron cryo-microscopy. The successful applicant will have strong biochemical and structural biology skills alongside a relevant PhD. The ideal candidate would have a background in DNA replication and extensive protein purification experience. This position is full-time and available for 36 months from April 2023 onwards. The starting salary will be within the range £34,308 - £39,745 per annum, depending on relevant experience.

Department

The position will be based in the research group of Dr. Michelle Hawkins within the Department of Biology under the joint supervision of Dr. Michelle Hawkins and Prof. Fred Antson. The Department of Biology is internationally renowned for its research and the successful candidate will benefit from expert training and support from the Bioscience Technology Facility. The structural work will be facilitated by the new Imaging Facility established at the University of York in 2020. This will provide access to the very latest equipment in electron cryo-microscopy and light microscopy, including a 200 kV Glacios cryo-TEM with Falcon IV detector, Zeiss Elyra 7 super-resolution microscope and bespoke TIRF microscope. The Hawkins and Antson groups share interdisciplinary laboratory space and there are multiple opportunities to engage with diverse researchers in the York Structural Biology Laboratory.

Key responsibilities

The main responsibilities are:

• To conduct research under the supervision of senior colleagues and to contribute to the production of research
• To assist in the identification and development of potential areas of research and the development of proposals for independent or collaborative research projects

Skills, Experience & Qualifications needed

The successful candidate will have a relevant PhD and strong skills in structural biology and biochemistry. Expertise in protein purification is essential and a background in DNA replication and/or electron cryo-microscopy will be beneficial. In addition candidates should also have:

• Knowledge of a range of research techniques and methodologies.
• Research expertise in an area that will complement and enhance the department’s research strategy and goals.
• The ability to work as part of a team and independently using their initiative.
• Experience of writing up research work for publication.
• Willingness to engage in public dissemination of research.
• Highly developed communication skills (oral and written).
• The ability to plan and prioritise their own work to meet deadlines.
• Commitment to personal development and updating of knowledge and skills.

Interview date: TBC

For informal enquiries: please contact Michelle Hawkins at [email protected]

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We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

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