Postdoctoral Research Associate

Research Associate in Parasite Biology

Role

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher for 36 months (potential extension up to 54 months) to perform laboratory-based research on the Leishmania parasite within the Department of Biology. The successful candidate will join a large team of parasite biologists within the York Biomedical Research Institute. The position is funded by a Wellcome Trust Career Development Award to Dr. Nicola Baker who will manage the post.

The project aims to uncover how Leishmania mexicana sense the pH and temperature changes that they encounter throughout their lifecycle, with a focus on protein kinases. Large scale screens, including use of a previously generated mutant library (Baker et al. 2021), will identify kinases of interest. The postholder will use a combination of proteomic (proximity labelling and phosphoproteomics) and molecular techniques (western blotting, microscopy and phenotypic assays) to interrogate parasite signalling pathways and identify sensors. This post will therefore suit someone with a PhD in a relevant area who can bring proteomic and mass spectrometry expertise. Previous experience in cell culture of Class 2 pathogens and general molecular biology techniques is also desirable.

Department

Our laboratories provide a supportive and collaborative environment in which the postdoctoral researcher can expand their range and learn new techniques. The Department of Biology is renowned internationally for its research, including biomedical research within the York Biomedical Research Institute. We strive to provide a working environment which allows all staff and students to contribute fully, flourish, and excel. We aim to ensure that there is a supportive and egalitarian culture across all staff, groups and levels. We promote good practice and a strong culture of equality in higher education. Further information can be found on our website.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed 

• A PhD in Molecular Biology, Protein Biochemistry or related area.
• Knowledge of proteomic methods
• Experience in cutting edge proteomic techniques, including analysis.
• Skills and experience in gene editing are desirable.
• Experience in cell culture, and in handling of class 2 pathogens are desirable.
• Competency to conduct individual and collaborative research projects.

This role is available on a fixed term basis for up to 36 months.

Interview date: To be confirmed.

For informal enquiries: please contact Dr. Nicola Baker on nicola.baker@york.ac.uk

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

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