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The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably protein crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies. The LMB has a clear goal of understanding biological processes at the molecular level, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease. We aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years.

There are four scientific Divisions - Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology. However, scientific collaboration between the different Divisions is extensive. Scientists are well supported by excellent scientific facilities and by the LMB Operations Group which maintains the core infrastructure and services of the institute.

The LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both new and established researchers. Scientists are drawn to the LMB from all over the world, thus creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and technical innovation.

Overall purpose:

To work within the groups of Drs Sjors Scheres and Tanmay Bharat at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme aimed at improving cryo-electron tomography. Specifically, to undertake research to develop new software tools for high-resolution structure determination by sub-tomogram averaging, including, but not limited to, tools for micrograph movie pre-processing, tomogram reconstruction, template matching, sub-tomogram selection, the refinement and classification of sub-tomograms. Being embedded in the groups of both Dr Bharat and Dr Scheres will ensure that newly developed software tools will be directly applicable to experimental data sets.

Main duties:

• To undertake research aimed at developing new tools for electron tomography and to apply these tools to relevant experimental data sets to answer important biological questions.
• To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
• To present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
• To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field.
• To draft scientific papers, and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.
• To contribute to the LMB’s mission in the public engagement of science, and the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.
• To assist in the training of PhD students and other members of the LMB.

Key responsibilities:

Within the overall direction of the programme, the groups, the remit of the project and in discussion with the Group Leader, you will make a significant input into determining the direction of the project within a three year lifespan.

To plan your own work and objectives on a 12-month basis and manage your experimental work within the project along with your supervisors.

To work with limited supervision to identify, develop, modify and apply the necessary techniques to achieve the goals of the project.

To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods where required.

To ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.

To contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, training of others and taking responsibility for use of communal facilities.

To enhance your research and generic skills through a tailored development programme.

Working relationships:

You will report to Drs Sjors Scheres and Tanmay Bharat and you will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support staff and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external groups as necessary.

Additional information:

Academic qualifications:

These should include a PhD in a relevant subject or due to complete PhD within 6 months.

Technical skills and expertise:

Experience of and ability to perform techniques relevant to the project. Particularly useful would be hands-on experience of electron cryo-tomography, including sub-tomogram averaging or template matching, and/or the development of software tools for structural biology or related fields.

Track record of research:

This will include achievements, and contributions to published papers.

Other relevant evidence of:

• Commitment.
• Originality.
• Ability to communicate.
• Working with others.

Additional information:

We are looking for an individual who is motivated to develop software tools that will be used by a wide variety of scientists. There is also scope for experimental work in the laboratory or at the microscope depending on the interests of the suitable candidate.

Corporate/Local responsibilities & requirements

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI.

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.