Postdoctoral Scientist - Neurobiology - Dr Diana Arseni - LMB 2517

Fixed term 3 years

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK

Dr Diana Arseni’s research explores the mechanisms of brain health, ageing and disease. A key focus of which is the lysosomal protein transmembrane protein 106B (TMEM106B). TMEM106B forms amyloids in the brain in an age-dependent manner and its genetic variants have been found to modulate healthy ageing and disease risk in frontotemporal lobal degeneration (FTLD) and Alzheimer’s disease. However, the underlying mechanisms behind TMEM106B and its implications for ageing and neurodegenerative disease are, as yet, unknown.

The successful candidate will develop in vitro and cell models that recapitulate the structure found in the human brain. This work is needed to understand the molecular mechanisms of TMEM106B amyloid formation and its effects on lysosomal health. This work will provide novel insights into the role of lysosomal TMEM106B in ageing and neurodegeneration, and open new avenues of research in lysosomal biology. (Schweighauser, Arseni, Bacioglu, Huang, Lovestam, Yang, Yang et al. 2022 605, 310-314).

We are looking for a scientist with a desire to work as part of a friendly, dynamic and supportive team. Previous experience of neuronal cell biology, protein purification and working with amyloids would be advantageous. They should contribute their expertise to the project but will also be able to learn new approaches and to expand into new biological topics in a fast-moving environment. The ideal candidate will have a PhD in a relevant subject or be due to complete within 6 months.

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.

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 click on 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 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.