Post-Doctoral Research Assistant - UOD2304

The Kulathu Lab at the MRC PPU, University of Dundee is looking to hire a postdoc with strong expertise in biochemistry to undertake a project to dissect how distinct branched heterotypic signals serve to trigger protein degradation.

This is a fixed-term appointment for 1 year.

Our lab studies how posttranslational modification of proteins with monoubiquitin or different polyubiquitin chains alters protein function to signal distinct responses in cells. A new type of ubiquitin signal has been discovered that contains branched ubiquitin structures. These branched heterotypic ubiquitin signals are dynamically made in cells and play important roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Mechanistically, the functions of these branched chains have not been elucidated because of the complex nature of these modifications and the lack of ways to study them.

The successful candidate will employ a highly multidisciplinary approach, with techniques including protein engineering, high throughput biochemical assays and structural biology to address exciting questions about the mechanisms and function of this emerging posttranslational modification.

Why Join Us?

• Work in a globally recognised research environment
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure
• Opportunities for career development, structured mentorship, and international collaboration
• Work in an environment that values openness, scientific rigour, and mutual support
• Benefit from a strong track record of mentoring postdoctoral researchers towards independent careers

Your priorities will include:

• Investigate the function and mechanism of heterotypic branched ubiquitin chain in cellular protein degradation.
• Project development and implementation, including experimental design; identification and development of a broad range of techniques necessary to achieve the research.
• Working collaboratively and assisting with the training of PhD students and other lab members.
• Presenting scientific work at internal and external meetings.
• Contributing to the preparation of research for publication.

Who we’re looking for:

• Have obtained a PhD (or nearing completion your PhD) in Biochemistry with a track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals. We strongly encourage early career researchers to apply for this role.
• Candidate will be expected to have expertise in the following areas:
  • recombinant protein expression and purification from diverse expression systems,
  • in vitro reconstitution and characterization of multiprotein complexes,
  • enzyme kinetics,
  • high throughput biochemical assays and structural biology.
• Have a strong interest and background in the following areas:
  • ubiquitin system.
  • protein quality control.
  • signal transduction mechanisms regulated by posttranslational modifications, is essential.
• Candidate will have a track record of research productivity and have demonstrated an ability to work independently.
• Have excellent communication skills and excellent ability to work in a team, and an open and collaborative approach to science.

We are one of the UK’s leading universities, internationally recognised for our expertise across a range of disciplines and research breakthroughs in multiple areas, including science, medicine and engineering, amongst many others. Our purpose is to transform lives, locally and globally, which we do as a community of staff (Professional Services and academic Faculties), students and alumni. Professional Services directorates are key to delivering the University strategy and driving change across the University.

For informal enquiries about this position please contact Yogesh Kulathu ykulathu@dundee.ac.uk.

To find out more about MRC PPU please visit https://www.ppu.mrc.ac.uk/

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