John Innes Centre
Location
Colney, Norfolk | United Kingdom
Job description
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the research team of Dr Michael Webster at the John Innes Centre to carry out individual and collaborative research projects.
Research in the Webster group focuses on understanding the molecular machines that express photosynthetic genes. We aim to discover what determines the timing and level of photosynthetic proteins production. We focus on using cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to determine structural models of large and dynamic protein complexes and develop mechanistic models of their activity aided by biochemistry, biophysics and proteomics methods. See, for example, Webster et al. 2020, Science 369:1355-59.
Photosynthesis underpins oxygenation of the atmosphere and supports the global food chain. In plants it occurs within chloroplasts, which contain a genome that encodes core subunits of the photosynthetic complexes. Despite their importance, we lack a detailed understanding of how chloroplast genes are expressed.
The Postdoctoral Researcher will study the structure and biochemical function of the molecular machinery that expresses photosynthetic genes. The Webster Group specializes in understanding molecular structure and dynamics using cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), and the Postdoctoral Researcher will benefit from extensive training in this area.
The post holder will prepare gene expression complexes from chloroplasts and by recombinant expression. Atomic models obtained by cryo-EM will be interpreted alongside biochemical, biophysical and proteomics experiments to answer the overarching question: how do plants control photosynthetic protein production for growth and adaptation?
These discoveries will also shed light on the nature of the fascinating and enigmatic chloroplast gene expression machinery. They will support the long-term effort to control photosynthetic output and timing for developing crops robust to a changing climate.
The successful candidate will have a PhD in molecular biology and a proven ability to perform protein biochemistry and structural biology methods. Experience in cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) is desirable, but full training will be provided. The candidate should have a strong interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms supporting gene expression.
Candidates should have experience in protein purification, characterisation of purified proteins by biochemical, biophysical or structural techniques, molecular cloning for recombinant expression of proteins, and a basic understanding of the biochemical process of gene expression.
The applicant will be trained in diverse transferrable scientific and personal skills. Scientific skills include cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), protein purification and subcellular fractionation techniques, negative stain electron microscopy, biophysical analysis of molecular interactions, biochemical analysis of nucleic acid processing, high-resolution electrophoretic assays, protein identification by peptide mass fingerprinting, bioinformatic analyses including protein structure prediction and DNA manipulation.
Further information and details of how to apply can be found here, or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or [email protected] quoting reference 1004618. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.
We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity. As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.
The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.
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Salary
£35.3k - £43.75k per annum
