A Postdoctoral Research Assistant position is available at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) in the group of Prof. Alexander Ruban, to work on the project "Quantification of the mechanisms of light tolerance that determine growth and productivity in plants and algae".
The proposal combines two state-of-the art clusters of approaches. First is the use of the plant and algal mutants in combination with the full physiological characterisation of photosynthetic membrane activity, composition and structural analysis (using freeze fracture electron microscopy) combined with immunogold labelling and the magnetic bead pull-down methods. Second, the use of the novel pNPQ technology for assessment of plant tolerance to light that will focus upon the quantification of the contribution of NPQ and D1 protein turnover to light tolerance in plants and diatom algae, differentiation of the effects of donor and acceptor site photodamage and its role in plant and algal growth and productivity.
Queen Mary is one of the top research-led universities in the UK and was ranked 9th among the UK multi-faculty universities in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014). All postdoctoral researchers are part of the QMUL Doctoral College, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.
The postdoctoral research will focus on development of plant and algal growth and stress techniques in order to achieve selective expression of specific minor photosynthetic antenna complexes important in protection against excess light; isolation of these complexes and their characterisation. In addition, the experimental work on establishment the relationship between photoprotective and repair mechanisms in the photosynthetic membrane of plants and algae will be carried out. The research will also be undertaken to establish the molecular basis for the relationship between photoprotection and productivity of the photosynthetic mechanisms
The equipment and all materials are available within the PI’s laboratory and the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences
The ideal candidate should have a PhD in Plant and Algal Physiology and/or Plant and Algal Biochemistry. Previous experience in growing plants and algae, isolation and characterisation of membrane proteins, electron microscopy is essential. A track record in high-quality original research and peer-reviewed publishing is essential. Duties may also include limited teaching activities (supervision of project students, tutorials, and lab demonstrating), which will enhance postdoc's experience and qualification.
This is a full-time, fixed term post available for a period of 3 years. The start date is 01/10/2018 or as soon as possible hereafter. The salary is £32,956 - 36,677 per annum and is inclusive of London allowance. Benefits include 30 days annual leave, season ticket loan and a pension scheme.
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 for further information are welcomed and may be made to Prof. Alexander Ruban, email:
[email protected]For further information about the School, please see
http://www.sbcs.qmul.ac.uk.
To apply, please click on the link below.
https://webapps2.is.qmul.ac.uk/jobs/job.action?jobID=3471Application enquiries should be directed to
[email protected] The closing date for applications is 7 August 2018. Interviews will be held shortly thereafter.
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