Postdoctoral Scientist - Neurobiology - Dr Michel Goedert - LMB 2317

Fixed term 3 years

The assembly of the proteins tau, alpha-synuclein and amyloid-beta into abnormal amyloid filaments is central to the development of most cases of human neurodegenerative disease. Since 2017, we have been using electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) for determining the structures of these filaments from human brains. We have shown that specific filament folds define distinct diseases, with differences in filament structures being between some diseases, not between individuals with a given disease. To understand mechanisms of disease, one must be able to form filaments in experimental settings that have the same structures as those from human brains. This has so far not been achieved in cells or animals. This position is therefore to make constructs of tau, alpha-synuclein and amyloid-beta, with the view to producing the same filament structures as those from human brains. Rodent nerve cells and differentiated human iPSCs will be used, as will amyloid seeds prepared from diseased human brains. Animals will be transgenic mice that express tau, alpha-synuclein and amyloid-beta in brain cells.

The postholder must have extensive experience in cell and molecular biology and the production and analysis of models of amyloid formation. Experience of cryo-EM will be an advantage. The ideal candidate will have a PhD in a relevant subject or be due to complete within 6 months. Good communication skills and the ability to work well both independently and in a group are crucial. 

This is a three-year training and development position suitable for you if you have recently completed your doctoral studies, or you are looking to move into a new research discipline and/or need to further develop your research skills. Working with our world class scientists you will be working in an Institute renowned for its excellent scientific facilities and high-quality research.

The LMB has an inclusive and collaborative working culture, and you will be based in our state-of-the-art building on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have on-site parking, cycle enclosures and excellent public transport links to the site. You will be able to access our range of excellent benefits including a staff restaurant with roof terrace, on-site nursery, sports and social facilities. You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme with an employer contribution of 16%, holiday entitlement of 40.5 days per annum (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing training and development opportunities including support towards role-related qualifications.

This role qualifies for endorsement by UKRI for a UK Global Talent Visa, for which the successful applicant is likely to be eligible to apply. Immigration costs (visa and health surcharge) can be reclaimed from UKRI after taking up the post (terms and conditions apply).

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit our job board via the ‘Apply’ button above.

If you are unable to apply online please contact us at recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk

Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening.

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion. We therefore, particularly welcome women, minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role.

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