Research Assistant in Membrane Protein Proteostasis

Location: Leeds - Main Campus

Contract type: Fixed Term (Available on a fixed-term basis for up to 2 years (to complete specific time limited work))

Are you an early career researcher looking for your first challenge? Do you have a background in membrane protein proteostasis research? Do you want to further your career in one of the UK’s leading research-intensive Universities?

This position provides an exciting opportunity to advance research into the SGTA/BAG6 complex, a key regulator of membrane protein homeostasis. This pathway is crucial in determining whether membrane proteins are properly targeted or degraded, with dysregulation linked to diseases like Alzheimer's, cystic fibrosis, and cancer.

The successful candidate will explore the molecular mechanisms governing proteostasis, with a focus on protein triaging, stability, and interactions. Key responsibilities include designing and conducting experiments using advanced molecular biology techniques such as cloning, mutagenesis, and mammalian cell culture, including knockout and knock-in cell line generation. You will investigate protein dynamics using methods like co-immunoprecipitation, pulse-chase assays, and quantitative Western blotting.  Additionally, you will analyse protein stability and interactions through biophysical techniques (e.g., circular dichroism, dynamic light scattering) and utilize mass spectrometry-based approaches (e.g., BioID2) to study protein interactomes. Advanced imaging techniques, such as confocal microscopy, FRAP, and super-resolution methods like PALM, will be employed to visualise cellular processes.

Applicants should have an MSc (or equivalent) in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field, with expertise in proteostasis pathways and hands-on experience in protein purification, expression systems, and cell biology techniques. This is an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research with significant implications for understanding and treating major diseases.

Salary Requirements of the Skilled Worker Visa Route

Please note that due to Home Office visa requirements, this role may only be suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants if they are eligible for salary concessions. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa.

For research and academic posts, we will consider eligibility under the Global Talent visa. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent.

What we offer in return

• 26 days holiday plus approx.16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – That’s 42 days a year!
• Generous pension scheme options plus life assurance.
• Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
• Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team.
• Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.

And much more!

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:

Dr Yvonne Nyathi, Lecturer in Membrane Biology

Email: Y.Nyathi@leeds.ac.uk

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