Postdoctoral Research Assistant

A Postdoctoral Research Assistant position is available at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) to work with Professor Richard Pickersgill. This project is in collaboration with Professor Martin Warren and colleagues at the Quadram Institute. We are also in collaboration with Dr Arianna Fornili (QMUL) on the computational aspects of the work. The post-holder will be funded by BBSRC on a project entitled “Vitamin scavenging in the gut: Structure/function of the tight-binding B12 foraging machinery in Bacteroides – and its biotechnological applications”.

You will bring a structural perspective to understanding the tight binding of B12 by several proteins of the common gut commensal Bacteriodes thetaiotamicron. Our underlying hypothesis is that there are many more components associated with this vitamin foraging machinery than previously thought and that they are employed not only for B12 scavenging but are also used to prevent acquisition of the nutrient by other bacteria. The post holder will join a multidisciplinary team with frequent meetings and interactions.

The successful candidate should have a PhD (or close to completion) in structural biology, biophysics, biochemistry, or a related field. The candidate should be able to provide evidence of expertise in protein purification, structural biology, and preferably X-ray crystallography. Excellent computing skills and a track record of high-quality published research would be an advantage. Self-motivation, an ability to work as part of a team and excellent research management and presentation skills are essential. We shall provide a supportive and encouraging environment and training where needed.

Queen Mary University of London is one of the top research-led universities in the UK and was ranked 7th among the UK multi-faculty universities in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021). All postdoctoral researchers are part of the Queen Mary Doctoral College, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.

At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable. Throughout our history, we’ve fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence and we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it’s simply ‘the right thing to do’ but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers.

We offer competitive salaries, access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days’ leave per annum (pro-rata for fixed-term), a season ticket loan scheme and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. In addition, we offer a range of work life balance and family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and campus facilities including an on-site nursery at the Mile End campus.

The start date is July 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter. The post is full-time and available for 2 years.

Queen Mary’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability.