Postdoctoral Scientist - Neurobiology - Dr Benjamin Ryskeldi-Falcon - LMB 2513

Fixed term, 3 years

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK 

We are seeking two postdoctoral scientists to join the group of Benjamin Ryskeldi-Falcon to investigate TDP-43 and annexin A11 amyloid filament formation in neurodegenerative diseases. The first project will focus on determining the structures and molecular interactions of these filaments using electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) and electron cryo-tomography (cryo-ET). The second project involves developing experimental models that recapitulate TDP-43 and annexin A11 amyloid filament formation, allowing for the study of molecular mechanisms and their roles in neurodegeneration.  

These projects build on our recent findings that TDP-43 forms amyloid filaments with disease-characteristic folds (Arseni et al. 2022 Nature 601, 139–143; Arseni et al. 2023 Nature 620, 898-903) and that annexin A11 forms heteromeric amyloid filaments with TDP-43 in at least one type of frontotemporal dementia (Arseni et al. 2024 Nature https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-08024-5).

We seek motivated team players to pursue ambitious cryo-EM projects on amyloids in neurodegenerative diseases. Candidates should hold a PhD or due to complete a PhD in 6 months. Expertise in any of cryo-EM (SPA/ cryo-ET/ cryo-CLEM), amyloids, neuronal/ glial cell culture and neurodegenerative disease models is an advantage. You will become part of our collaborative and supportive group and will benefit from additional interactions with the wider multi-disciplinary scientific community at the LMB. 

Group web site: https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/group-leaders/benjamin-falcon/. 

The two positions are three-year training and development positions 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. 

The LMB is a world-class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is nine research councils, working together across all disciplines and sectors. More information can be found at www.ukri.org and www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk. 

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. 

Closing date: 02/12/2024 

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

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes 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. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require; recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.