Senior Structural Biochemist

Location: The Francis Crick Institute, London

About us

The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions. 

To learn more about the Crick, click here.

About the role 

This project aims to define the structural basis for the molecular mechanism PolθHelicase-orchestrated MMEJ initiation by capturing dynamic snapshots of its RPA-displacing and microhomology annealing activities by time-resolved cryo-EM (Maeots et al. 2020 and 2025). These proof-of-concept studies, if successful, would not only greatly advance basic biologic understanding but also highlight the importance of understanding structural dynamics for drug discovery. 

We are now looking for a Senior Structural Biochemist to join the team at the Crick.

Within this role you will be expected to creatively lead on your own project, whilst also contributing to the wider team ongoing projects. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a truly multi-disciplinary research programme, which will train the next-generation of scientific leaders, equipped to succeed both in academia and in industry. You will work with highly experienced colleagues and collaborators in an institute that values discovery without boundaries. 

As a Senior Structural Biochemist at the Crick, your key responsibility will bet to perform biochemical reconstitutions and structural studies relating to the project.

Some of the other specific aims include, but are not limited to:

• In vitro biochemical binding and activity assays of relevant POLQ constructs and substrates
• Structural studies of above complexes by conventional cryo-EM and single particle analysis
• Application of trEM workflows to the above and related complexes

Please see the full job description here.

For more information on the lab, see here. 

About you

You will have:

• A PhD (or equivalent experience) in biochemistry, structural biology or related field.
• Track record of research experience in molecular mechanism of helicases and/or DNA damage and repair pathways.
• Practical experience with in vitro protein biochemistry.
• Strong practical and theoretical knowledge of cryo-EM, single particle analysis and model building.
• Track record of ability to plan, design and execute independent biochemical and structural biology research 

About Working at the Crick 

Our values  

• We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently. 
• We are open. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world. 
• We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community. 

At the Crick, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. If you need assistance with your application, please contact weronika.kucala@crick.ac.uk

To read more about our EDI approach, click here.   

What will you receive?  

We value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development. You can find out more about what we offer here.

To apply for this role, please click on the 'Apply' button above.

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