Research Associate in Mass Spectrometry (637818)

FTE: 1 FTE
Term: Fixed Term (24 months)

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher to join Dr Rebecca Beveridge in the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry at the University of Strathclyde. Dr Beveridge leads a research group using native ion mobility mass spectrometry to characterise the dynamic behaviours of proteins and protein complexes. This post is funded by a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship awarded to Dr Beveridge, entitled ‘Understanding intrinsically disordered proteins and their potential as new drug targets through novel measurement capabilities’.

The successful candidate will develop native ion mobility mass spectrometry (IMMS) methods to better understand the dynamic behaviour of the N-terminal domain of the Androgen Receptor (AR-NTD), which is a key drug target in prostate cancer. AR-NTD is intrinsically disordered, meaning that it exists in a wide range of conformations and is therefore challenging to characterize with most techniques. The goals of the project are (i) to develop screening methods to identify new ligands that bind to AR-NTD, and (ii) to use novel methods that we’ve developed in-house to investigate the conformational changes of AR-NTD as it undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation.

To achieve the goals of the project, it is desired that the candidate will have expertise in the biophysical characterisation of proteins, and/or experience in mass spectrometry. Experience in protein mass spectrometry, ion mobility and/or chromatography would be advantageous. The candidate will take on leadership roles, including the supervision of additional research projects where PhD students are supporting the core research programme.

This project is in collaboration with Waters Corporation (Wilmslow, UK), so will provide experience of working in an industrial setting. You will conduct individual and collaborative research and contribute to the development of new research methods. It is expected that you will present your research at international and national conferences, as well as publish high-impact peer-reviewed papers. You will join external networks to share information and ideas, inform the development of research objectives and to identify potential sources of funding. You will collaborate with colleagues on the development of knowledge exchange activities by, for example, participating in initiatives which establish research links with industry and influence public policy and the professions. You will supervise student projects, provide advice to students and engage in continuous professional development.

To be considered for the role, you will be educated to PhD level in chemistry, biochemistry or a related discipline, or have significant relevant experience in addition to a relevant degree. You will have a developing ability to conduct individual research work, and to disseminate results. You will be able to plan and organise your own workload effectively and be able to work within a team environment. You will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to listen, engage and persuade, and to present complex information in an accessible way to a range of audiences.

Whilst not essential for the role, applications are welcomed from candidates with: relevant work experience, membership of relevant Chartered/professional bodies (including the Higher Education Academy), experience of relevant student supervision and teaching activities, and/or experience of knowledge exchange related activities.

Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to Dr Rebecca Beveridge, Senior Lecturer (Rebecca.beveridge@strath.ac.uk).

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