Research Associate Lancaster, England
Job description
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to join our team to investigate the evolution of ubiquitin signalling and protein homeostasis pathways of the archaea. The position is available for 2 years in the laboratory of Dr Nick Robinson in the Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences at Lancaster University, UK, and is funded by the Leverhulme Trust (Research Project Grant: Using the Asgard archaea to trace the natural history of protein homeostasis).
Our lab uses archaea as model organisms to investigate the evolution and mechanistic action of ubiquitin-like modifications and protein homeostasis pathways; see Hennel James et al., 2017, Nature Communications 8: 1120 (2017); Tarrason Risa et al., 2020, Science, Vol 369, Issue 6504 DOI: 10.1126/science.aaz2532; Hatano et al., 2022 Nature Communications 13, Article number: 3398 (2022). The recent unprecedented discovery of the Asgard superphylum of archaea (Zaremba-Niedzwiedzka, et al., Nature 541: 353–358 (2017); Imachi et al, Nature 577: 519–525 (2020)) has confirmed that ubiquitin signalling and the associated protein homeostasis pathways of complex eukaryotic cells have clear evolutionary roots in the archaea. In this project you will employ a range of biochemical, biophysical, bioinformatic and structural approaches investigate the evolution and molecular mechanisms of ubiquitin mediated protein homeostasis in the Asgard archaea. This project will offer exciting opportunities to also visit collaborators at the Laboratory of Microbiology, University of Wageningen and the Scottish Centre for Macromolecular Imaging at the University of Glasgow.
You are required to hold a Masters and preferably a PhD (or close to completion/submission of a PhD) in a relevant field, have a strong background in molecular and cell biology techniques and a strong interest in protein evolution, structural biology and biochemistry. Experience in the areas of protein biochemistry, protein-protein interactions, or posttranslational modifications would be an advantage, but necessary training will be provided. We are looking for a highly motivated individual with excellent communication skills and the capacity to work well in a team. A demonstrable record of accomplishment in conducting high quality original research and an enthusiasm for science are also key attributes.
You will demonstrate excellent interpersonal, communication and presentational skills to interact with staff and facility users at all levels
Our lab and the Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences is a friendly research environment that strongly supports the individual needs of each
employee and which actively promotes a healthy work-life balance. The University is located in beautiful surroundings, close to Morecambe Bay, the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. The Faculty is committed to family-friendly and flexible working policies and has
held a Silver Athena SWAN award since 2014 in recognition of its good
employment practice undertaken to address gender equality in higher
education and research.
Informal enquiries are welcome. Please contact Dr Nick Robinson
([email protected]) for more information.
We welcome applications from people in all diversity groups.
