Research Associate (A3043)

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to join our team to investigate the evolution of ubiquitin signaling and protein homeostasis pathways of the archaea. The position is available for 5 years in the laboratory of Dr Nick Robinson in the Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences at Lancaster University, UK, and is funded by the Leverhulme Trust (Research Project Grant: Using the Asgard archaea to trace the natural history of protein homeostasis).

Our lab uses archaea as model organisms to investigate the evolution and mechanistic action of ubiquitin- like modifications and protein homeostasis pathways (see Hennel James et al., 2017, Nature Communications 8: 1120; Anjum et al., 2015, Nature Communications 6: 8163; Tarrason Risa et al., 2020, Science (in Press - online as BioRXiv https://doi.org/10.1101/774273). The recent discovery of the Asgard superphylum of archaea (Zaremba- Niedzwiedzka, et al., Nature 541: 353–358 (2017); Imachi et al, Nature 577: 519–525 (2020)) has confirmed that ubiquitin signalling and the associated protein homeostasis pathways of complex eukaryotic cells have clear evolutionary roots in the archaea. In this project you will employ a range of biochemical, biophysical, bioinformatic and structural approaches investigate the evolution and molecular mechanisms of ubiquitin mediated protein homeostasis in the Asgard archaea. The project will offer opportunities to also visit collaborators and develop techniques at the Laboratory of Microbiology at the University of Wageningen and also the Department of Biochemistry and the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, University of Cambridge.

You are required to hold a PhD in a relevant field, have a strong background in molecular and cell biology techniques and a strong interest in protein evolution, structural biology and biochemistry. Experience in the areas of protein biochemistry, protein-protein interactions, or post-translational modifications would be an advantage, but all training will be provided. We are looking for a highly motivated individual with excellent communication skills and the capacity to work well in a team. A demonstrable record of accomplishment in conducting high quality original research and an enthusiasm for science are also key attributes.

You will demonstrate excellent interpersonal, communication and presentational skills to interact with staff and facility users at all levels

Our lab and the Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences is a friendly research environment that strongly supports the individual needs of each employee and which actively promotes a healthy work-life balance. The University is located close to Morecambe Bay, the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. The Faculty is committed to family-friendly and flexible working policies and has held a Silver Athena SWAN award since 2014 in recognition of its good employment practice undertaken to address gender equality in higher education and research.

Informal enquiries are welcome. Please contact Dr Nick Robinson (n.robinson2@lancaster.ac.uk) for more information.

We welcome applications from people in all diversity groups.

Closing Date: 02 Aug 2020
Category: Research