MRC Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Structural and biochemical analysis of protein complexes controlling meiotic chromosome architecture

3 years fixed term

Salary: £35,143 plus London Allowances (£3,727 & £1,402) per annum*

London, UK 

We are looking for a talented and self-motivated biochemist or structural biologist to join the Meiosis research group within the MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences. The main goal of the project will be to investigate how protein complexes formed by cohesin and HORMA-domain proteins control the organization and function of meiotic chromosomes. We have recently implemented methods to express and purify meiosis-specific cohesin complexes and HORMA-domain proteins from the nematode C. elegans. Exploiting these methods, this project will aim to first determine the structure of cohesin-HORMAD protein complexes, and second to investigate the molecular activity of these complexes using single-molecule approaches. The project will involve collaborations with internal and external research groups. Predictions derived from these in vitro experiments will be tested in an in vivo context in collaboration with other lab members by exploiting the experimental advantages of the nematode C. elegans. The structural work could be extended to elucidate the structure of human meiotic cohesin-HORMAD protein complexes. Ultimately, this project will contribute to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for the formation of meiosis-specific chromosome structures required for the formation of euploid gametes, and therefore for fertility.  

For more detailed information about the work of the meiosis group, please visit: https://lms.mrc.ac.uk/research-group/meiosis/.           

This post is a MRC Postdoctoral Research Scientist position that strives to support post-doctoral scientists in early or changed career training and help establish them as successful research scientists in their chosen field. We offer a highly attractive benefits package including competitive salary, excellent holiday entitlement and generous pension scheme. 

For full details of this post and to complete an online application, please click on the 'Apply' button above  and upload your CV, names and contacts of two scientific references along with a covering letter stating why you are applying for this role (providing evidence against the requirements of the job as per the job description and person specification).  Please quote reference number LMS 2241.

Applications which do not provide a cover letter will not be considered. 

Closing date: 8^th October 2023

‘The Medical Research Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer’

Final appointment will be subject to pre-employment screening. 

*Additional allowances comprise a £1,000 lump sum Settlement Allowance plus a yearly Training Allowance of £850 in the first year, paid in monthly instalments. The Training Allowance increases to £1,300 in year two, and £1,800 in the third year. 

This role qualifies for endorsement by UKRI for a UK Global Talent Visa, for which the successful applicant is likely to be eligible to apply. Immigration costs for applicant (100% visa and 100% Health Surcharge) and immediate dependents (100% visa and 50% health surcharge when applying with main applicant) can be reclaimed from LMS after taking up the post (terms and conditions apply).

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