Postdoctoral Research Assistant position in Micro-optics and photosynthetic light-trapping in cyanobacteria, REF: QMUL10014
A Postdoctoral Research Assistant position is available in the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL). Working with Prof Conrad Mullineaux (QMUL) and Dr Alan Lowe (UCL) you will examine the role of micro-optic effects on photosynthetic light-trapping in cyanobacteria. The project is funded by the BBSRC for 3 years.
The Mullineaux group (
http://www.sbcs.qmul.ac.uk/staff/conradmullineaux.html) focuses on photosynthesis in cyanobacteria and bacterial cell biology. In collaboration with colleagues in Freiburg and Karlsruhe (Germany) and University College London we recently established that cyanobacterial cells have unexpected micro-optic properties which are crucial for directional light-sensing in phototaxis (Schuergers et al. (2016) eLife 2016;5:e12620). Together with the same team of collaborators we now wish to establish the role that microscopic lensing and wave-guiding effects play in photosynthesis in cyanobacteria. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to engage in this project using a variety of molecular biological, microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. There will be the opportunity for collaborative visits to Karlsruhe and Freiburg, Germany.
The successful candidate will have a PhD or equivalent in biophysics, biochemistry or molecular biology, preferably with experience in one or more of the following: cyanobacterial molecular genetics; photosynthesis research; microscopy; spectroscopy; optics. A demonstrable ability to develop your own research through to publication is also desirable as evidenced by a publication in a peer-reviewed international journal or one in press. Appropriate training will be provided as part of our commitment to develop the careers of our researchers.
Queen Mary is one of the largest colleges in the University of London and with a budget of £285 million per annum is one of the UK's leading research-intensive institutions, having joined the Russell Group in 2012. The School of Biological and Chemical Sciences includes a dynamic and productive group of photosynthesis researchers with strong links to the wider photosynthesis research community in London and beyond. (
http://www.photosynthesis.london/).
The full-time position is available for 34 months. The salary will be in the range of £32,405 - £36,064 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance. Benefits include 30 days annual leave, defined benefit pension scheme and interest-free season ticket loan.
Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme.
Informal enquiries are encouraged; please contact Prof Mullineaux via e-mail
[email protected]For further information about the School, please seehttp://
www.sbcs.qmul.ac.uk.
To apply, please visit the Human Resources website on
http://www.jobs.qmul.ac.uk/search/ and search for reference QMUL10014.
Application enquiries should be directed to
[email protected].
The closing date for applications is 7 November 2016. Interviews will be held shortly thereafter.
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