Postdoctoral Research Associate

Role Description

Department of Biology

Our laboratories provide a supportive and collaborative environment in which the PDRA can contribute fully, flourish and expand their range and learn new techniques. The Department of Biology is renowned internationally for its research, and the successful applicant will join a team of researchers in the York Biomedical Research Institute investigating cellular processes in parasites that cause African trypanosomiasis.

Role

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher for 36 months to characterise the signalling pathways that regulate autophagy, lysosome exocytosis and biomolecular condensates during the lifecycle differentiations and host adaptation of the African trypanosome T. brucei. The position is funded by a MRC CDA to Dr. Mathieu Cayla who will manage the post.

The project will require the use of a wide range of different techniques such as high−throughput live imaging, gene silencing screens, mass spectrometry and murine infection, giving plenty of opportunity to develop transferable skills.

The position requires you to have a PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology or Microbiology. For this multidisciplinary project, you will bring knowledge and expertise in standard molecular biology, -omics studies and imaging techniques. It would be highly desirable to have previous experience in one or more of the following: handling murine models and pathogens of class 2, in protein kinases and signalling, in -omics data analysis, super resolution microscopy and/or live imaging, and CRISPR/Cas9 mediated precision editing.

Key responsibilities

The post must cover the following responsibilities:

• Validate of high−throughput live imaging system combined with gene silencing screen of protein kinases
• Autophagy-related proximity labelling, phospho-proteomic and mass spectrometry analysis
• Assays of protein interaction and enzyme activity using biophysical and biochemical approaches
• Generation of mutated cell lines by CRISPR/Cas9 mediated precision editing and phenotypic validation in vitro and in murine model
• Biomolecular condensate purification and component analysis by mass spectrometry and sequencing

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• A PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology or Microbiology
• Knowledge in molecular biology, parasitology, and a range of modern techniques, to engage in high quality research
• Skills and experiences in cell culture, handling of class 2 pathogens, murine infection, and gene editing is desirable
• Excellent track record of research publications and highly developed communication skills
• Attention to detail, collaborative ethos with interest in and enthusiasm for co-supervising students
• Positive attitude to colleagues and students and a willingness to work proactively
• Commitment to personal development and understanding of equality and diversity issues

Interview date: 28/10/2024 (TBC)

For informal enquiries: please contact Dr. Mathieu Cayla on mathieu.cayla@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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