Post Doctoral Research Assistant - Understanding enzymes with NMR applications

Applied Sciences

£30,766 - £37,442 per annum

Fixed term until 31 July 2026

37 hours per week

This is an exciting opportunity for a post-doctoral researcher (PDRA) to join the Department of Physical and Life Sciences working on a multidisciplinary project. The project involved the study of selected enzymes from human pathogens in a project combining protein biochemistry, structural biology, and developing and utilising NMR approaches to monitor ligand binding following metabolic and catabolic processes.

Catabolism of host sterols is utilised by some mycobacteria including the human pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis for pathogenesis and persistence. These bacteria employ enzyme pathways, including cytochrome P450 cholesterol oxidases, that can effectively catabolise sterols. Interestingly, non-pathogenic mycobacterial strains (and other actinomycetes) also metabolise sterols and are being explored for biological applications of sterol synthesis. These pathways can generate metabolites that are useful precursors in the synthesis of steroidal pharmaceuticals.

The Department of Physical and Life Sciences is part of the School of Applied Sciences within the University of Huddersfield. This multidisciplinary department has state-of-the-art analytical facilities maintained and run by an in-house team of experts. Of note for this project are our modern Bruker Neo 600 MHz NMR with cryo-probe, our brand-new Agilent Q-Tof LC-MS and a range of fundamental biochemical/analytical equipment including AKTA-pure for efficient protein purification.

This project forms part of a wider scheme to maximise use of our NMR and LC/MS facilities. Although working independently, you will therefore be part of a team of analytical specialists utilising the technique for different projects. Bespoke training will be provided where necessary, including NMR-based provision with Bruker Corporation.

- You will conduct research with supervision and support of senior colleagues.

- You will participate in the development of processes and techniques to enhance our NMR facility with a greater role in the application of NMR to biological samples

- You will purify proteins and material for study, prepare samples, run and investigate samples, and analyse data.

- You will routinely prepare and present data; both informally in group meetings, and more formally at conferences.

- You will assist in preparation of material for peer reviewed publications.

You will have a first degree in (bio)chemistry, natural sciences, or an allied subject with a PhD in biochemistry/biophysics/analytical chemistry, or related sciences. Experience of NMR and LC-MS is desirable. Experience of protein biochemistry is desired.

With relevant experience you will have a passion for science, an inquisitive nature, and great attention for detail.

The University is deeply committed to equality and diversity for all its students and staff.  We seek to be diverse and inclusive, supporting individuals and groups to fulfil their potential and nurture a sense of belonging.  We strive to be an accessible, inclusive employer, removing barriers for all.  Find out more about our approach to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, including our commitments and accreditations as a Disability Confident Employer, Stonewall Gold Award holder and Top 100 Employer, Athena SWAN Bronze Award holder and Race Equality Charter Bronze Award holder.

Informal enquiries are welcome to Dr Hazel Girvan (h.m.girvan@hud.ac.uk) and Dr Kirsty McLean (k.j.mclean@hud.ac.uk).

For further details about this post and to make an application, please select the apply button shown.

Closing date: 21 October 2024

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