Job Opportunities
Cancer Research UK-funded Research Associate position in the structural biology of p97
We are seeking to recruit a Research Associate to work with Professor Paul Freemont and Professor Xiaodong Zhang’s research team in the Division of Molecular Biosciences, Centre for Structural Biology, at the South Kensington Campus of Imperial College London. This Cancer Research UK funded position is available initially for 3 years from 1 January 2012 but can be extended up to 5 years subject to further funding.
The multifunctional AAA ATPase p97 is involved in a myriad of cellular processes including cell cycle regulation, membrane traffic, protein quality control, DNA metabolism, signalling and apoptosis. Consequently mutations in p97 cause cell death or various diseases. Furthermore, p97 has been shown to be a potential target for cancer treatment. We are currently conducting an exciting and comprehensive study on the structure and mechanism of the p97 and cofactor proteins using a combination of protein biochemistry, X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy techniques. The successful candidates will be responsible for carrying out structural and functional studies of p97 and its cofactors, using both X-ray crystallography and single particle electron cryo-microscopy.
Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent qualifications in structural biology or biochemistry discipline. Research experience in a structural biological laboratory environment covering electron microscopy single particle analysis is essential. Applicants must be able to demonstrate knowledge to at least undergraduate level in protein biochemistry and structural biology. It is also essential that the post holders have the capacity to carry out innovative and high quality structural biological research. Experience in X-ray crystallography, writing scientific research papers and supervision and training of junior research staff and students are desirable.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate the ability to undertake day-to-day supervision and training of other research team members and conduct detailed reviews of research literature. High levels of initiative, innovation and problem solving skills are also essential. The post holder must have excellent written and verbal communication skills, be able develop and apply new concepts well as rapidly learn new research methods. You must be able to demonstrate excellent organisational skills and the ability to pay close attention to detail. It is also essential that you are able to organise your own work with minimal supervision ensuring you meet deadlines and research objectives. Applicants must be able to direct the work of a small research team and motivate others to produce a high standard of work. Advanced computer skills, especially electron microscopy image processing packages are desirable. Willingness to travel both within the United Kingdom and abroad to conduct research and attend conferences/workshops and other meetings is essential.
Closing Date for applications is 29 February 2012 (midnight GMT)
Please apply online. Select Job Search, then enter the vacancy reference number including spaces NS 2011 242 KT into Keywords. Please complete and upload an application form as directed, attaching a curriculum vitae, a cover letter and the name and contact details of two referees. For informal enquiries please contact . If you are unable to apply online, please contact by email to request an application form.
Wellcome Trust-funded Research Associate position in electron microscopy
We wish to recruit a Research Associate to work with Xiaodong's research team in collaboration with Prof. Dale Wigley at the Institute of Cancer Research.
Eukaryotic genomic DNA is organized into nucleosomes and chromatin for genome stability and integrity. However, this creates barriers for processes that require access to the DNA, such as transcription and DNA repair. Chromatin remodeling complexes remodel nucleosomes and chromatin to provide access. The INO80 complex is a multi-subunit, large macromolecular machine that remodels nucleosomes upon DNA damage in order for the repair machinery to access the damaged DNA. We are currently conducting an exciting and comprehensive study on the structure and mechanism of the INO80 complex using a combination of protein biochemistry, X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy techniques. The successful candidate will join a team of scientists with diverse backgrounds and will be responsible for carrying out structural studies of the INO80 complex, primarily using electron microscopy techniques. The successful candidate will work closely with Prof. Wigley's laboratory at the Institute of Cancer Research, Chester Beatty Laboratories, where the majority of the protein biochemistry will be carried out.
Successful candidates must hold a PhD in a structural biology or biochemistry discipline and have demonstrated an ability to carry out high-quality original research using electron microscopy techniques.
Salary will be in the range of £31,300 - £33,020 per annum.
This position is funded for 3 years by the Wellcome Trust and is available from January 1 2012 onwards.
Closing date: February 29, 2012
Please apply online and quote reference NS 2011 187 KT
BBSRC-funded MRes and PhD studentships in Structural Molecular Biology
Applications are invited for the 1-year MRes and 3 to 4-year PhD programmes in Structural Molecular Biology.
MRes in Structural Biology
As part of the Centre for Structural Biology, we organise a one-year MRes course, giving in-depth practical experience of techniques relevant to structural biology.