A Generalised Approach to Derive Functionally Active Peptide Inhibitors of Transcription Factor Activity

Dr Neil Kad’s lab at the University of Kent is looking for a bright and enthusiastic individual who is interested in using state-of-the-art single molecule techniques to image transcription factor interactions with DNA tightropes (see Kad et al., 2010). The project is wide-ranging from protein biochemistry to single molecule data collection and analysis. This project will be undertaken in collaboration with partners and will require travel in the UK and possibly beyond.

This interdisciplinary project is aimed at understanding how inhibitors of transcription factor proto-oncogenes work. By directly imaging of RNA polymerase moving along DNA, we will learn how inhibitors exert their action and using this information we can work with the Mason group at the University of Bath to generate better inhibitors. We have fully developed the technology to visualise six fluorophores in wide-field microscopy simultaneously, enabling us to image multiple components acting together. In addition, the inhibitor selection assay is fully developed at the University of Bath. This is a hugely valuable project, for which training and support will be given throughout, including regular meetings between team members and a 6-week exchange programme with the University of Bath to gain new skills and enhance progress

The Kad lab is very well-equipped with microscopes dedicated to single molecule fluorescence imaging, dark-field and laser tweezers. In addition, the School of Biosciences at Kent houses numerous shared facilities from NMR and Mass Spectrometry to cell biology and super-resolution imaging.

This 3-yr BBSRC funded Postdoctoral position is available from 1st August and applicants must have or be about to receive a PhD in a relevant science subject. Candidates should also have experience in protein biochemistry/biophysics and preferably single molecule/microscopy methods. For more information or informal enquiries please contact Dr. Neil Kad: [email protected] +44 1227 816151.
Deadline for applications: 5 July 2018