Postdoctoral Research Assistant - UOD2315

We are recruiting a postdoctoral research associate to join the Swamy group, to explore the role of a disease-relevant kinase in B cell function in the gut. This is a fixed-term appointment for 30 months, starting August 2026.

This MRC-funded project will investigate the role of LRRK2, a key kinase and potential drug target for both Crohn's disease and Parkinson's disease, in intestinal immune homeostasis. Using in vivo models and primary human lymphocytes, the project will examine LRRK2 function in B cells, building on our previous findings of inflammation-dependent LRRK2 induction in B cells (Dikovskaya et al, 2025, PMID: 40394349), and the extensive local expertise in LRRK2 mechanistic studies (Alessi and Pfeffer 2024, PMID: 38621236). We aim to understand the role of disease-relevant LRRK2 mutations using patient samples and biochemical studies.

The successful candidate will have contribute to ground-breaking research that has strong translational potential, with opportunities to present the research in national and international meetings and to publish. Public engagement and patient involvement will form a key part of the role, alongside opportunities to develop the research further with clinicians. The successful candidate will be trained in cutting-edge proteomic technologies, human immunology, -omics analyses, spectral flow cytometry, and other state-of-the-art techniques. Candidates with a keen interest in investigating disease-relevant human immunology and expertise in B cells are encouraged to apply.

For further information about this position please contact Dr. Mahima Swamy (m.swamy@dundee.ac.uk).

Your priorities will include:

• Strong interest in studying the biochemical underpinnings of human diseases
• Focus on B cell biology
• Confidence in project implementation, decision-making, coordinating collaborative research Willingness to work in a team and contribute to other projects in the lab
• Writing and presenting research for publication and at conferences

Who we’re looking for:

• Have a PhD in Immunology and at least one publication/preprint demonstrating research output.
• Have established skills with primary lymphocytes and flow cytometry
• Have a strong ability to work independently but with the communication skills and openness to work in a team
• Be willing to foster an open and collaborative approach to science and have a strong commitment to research integrity
• Have excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• Have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain collaborations

The MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC PPU) is a world-leading centre for research into protein phosphorylation and ubiquitylation (http://www.ppu.mrc.ac.uk). Its main goals are to deepen understanding of how these processes regulate cells and contribute to human disease, support drug development for related disorders, and generate new reagents and technologies.

The diversity of our staff and students helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for undergraduate, postgraduate and distance learning. Family friendly policies, staff networks for BME, Disabled and LGBT staff, membership of Athena SWAN, the ECU Race Equality Charter and Stonewall as well a full range of disability services, create an enjoyable and inclusive place to work.

Advert information