Postdoctoral Scientist – Structural Studies – Dr Suyang Zhang – LMB 2127

Postdoctoral Scientist
Salary £35,143 per annum
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is a research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is an entity that brings together nine partners to create an independent organisation with a strong voice for research and innovation, more information can be found at www.ukri.org.

We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Scientist to join Dr Suyang Zhang’s group to investigate the mechanism of co-transcriptional splicing. The project aims to understand the mechanism of crosstalk between the transcription and splicing machineries using a combined biochemical and structural approach with a focus on cryo-EM.

In eukaryotes, RNA synthesis and splicing are intricately coupled to each other to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of pre-mRNA processing. Despite advances in our understanding of transcription and splicing as two separate processes, the molecular mechanisms underlying co-transcriptional splicing in a cellular context remain to be elucidated. We have recently determined the structure of a transcribing Pol II-U1 snRNP complex that provided a model of how distant intron ends can be functionally paired for splicing (Science 2021 371:6526).

The successful candidate will have a PhD in biological sciences or due to complete PhD within 6 months and a strong background in biochemistry or structural biology. Experience in cryo-EM is beneficial but not required, as training can be provided in the group. The candidate should have worked independently and has good communication skills to work in a team.

The successful applicant will be awarded a 3-year Career Development Fellowship/ Postdoctoral Training Scheme position.  This is a training and development position for a Postdoctoral Scientist who has recently completed their doctoral studies, is moving into a new research discipline or has limited experience of key transferable skills. The MRC LMB has excellent scientific core facilities and training opportunities.

For further information, please visit: https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/group-leaders/t-to-z/suyang-zhang/

Working for UKRI provides a whole host of benefits including a defined benefit pension scheme and excellent holiday entitlement (40 ½ days including bank holidays and privilege days). You will also have access to employee shopping and travel discounts, on-site sport and social facilities, as well as a salary sacrifice scheme for cycle to work.

Applicants should provide a CV, a motivation letter including a brief description of current research activities, and contact information of 2 to 3 references.

Informal enquires can be made to Suyang Zhang (szhang@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk)

This role qualifies for endorsement by UKRI for a UK Global Talent Visa, for which the successful applicant is likely to be eligible to apply. Immigration costs (visa and health surcharge) can be reclaimed from UKRI after taking up the post (terms and conditions apply).

If you are unable to apply online please contact us at recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

Closing date: Wednesday 10^th May 2023

Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening.
The Medical Research Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer who participates in the Disability Confident scheme.