Location: White City Campus
Job Summary
We are seeking an outstanding Research Associate in Protein Chemistry to contribute to a Leverhulme Trust funded project across the Aprile, Kuimova and Vilar groups in the Department of Chemistry. The project is based on understanding the solid and liquid self-assembly of the protein alpha-synuclein, which are key mechanisms associate with neurodegenerative disease, e.g., Parkinson’s disease.
Your project will focus on investigating the effect of genetic mutations, post-translational modifications, and therapeutic molecules on the aggregation and liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of alpha-synuclein. You will be expected to take the lead role in designing approaches to investigate the self-assembly of the protein in vitro and in cellulo. To do so, you will use a combination of biophysical techniques, including fluorescence spectroscopy and confocal and electron microscopy.
Duties and responsibilities
You will be responsible for managing the day-to-day progress of the project, including the design and implementation of appropriate experiments and techniques utilising effective problem-solving skills where necessary. You will be responsible for managing the day-to-day progress of the project, including the design and implementation of appropriate experiments and techniques utilising effective problem-solving skills where necessary. You will work within the teams of Dr Aprile, Prof. Kuimova, and Prof. Vilar. Effective report writing and accurate recording of high-quality data in a publishable format will be an essential aspect of the role and you will be required to present your results regularly both at group meetings and at relevant internal and external conferences and seminars.
In all research groups we frequently support the undergraduate degree programme by providing research projects within our lab and you may be expected to play an active role in the supervision of these students alongside responsibilities in lab management and support of more junior members of the group. You will also be expected to assist in ensuring safe working practice is adhered to by members of the lab and to support other research associates within the lab with the management of health and safety, equipment maintenance and laboratory rotas. Imperial College runs a unique post-doctoral development centre, and you will be expected to attend appropriate courses.
Essential requirements
You will hold, or be near completion of, a PhD in chemistry or a related STEM discipline (such as chemical biology, biochemistry), or an equivalent level of professional qualifications and experience, with a strong desire to progress in your career at a world leading research institution. Essential criteria include a strong track record in protein biochemistry and biophysics. You must have a strong background in protein purification, modification, and biophysical characterisation. You will have demonstrable creativity and the ability to work effectively in an efficient and independent manner and achieve clear objectives within a multidisciplinary team.
Further Information
This is a full time, fixed term position for 2 years, with possible extension. You will be based at White City Campus. The expected start date is 01 January 2024 with some flexibility.
Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant.
Should you require any further details on the role please contact:
Prof. Marina Kuimova ([email protected]), Dr Francesco A. Aprile ([email protected]), Prof. Ramon Vilar ([email protected]).