Investigator Scientist | Cell Biology | Mass Spectrometry | LMB 3032

UKRI; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

UKRI at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) seeks an investigator scientist to deliver quantitative proteomics across diverse projects. You will operate high-throughput labelled and label-free workflows and maintain cutting-edge mass spectrometers.

You will analyse data, train users in sample preparation for quantitative proteomics, and contribute to publications and grant applications while collaborating with facility staff and research groups.

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant biological subject and a track record of academic and professional achievement.
• Postdoctoral experience in a mass spectrometry facility focusing on proteomics/sample analysis.
• Experience with sample preparation in shared MS facilities across diverse biological subjects.
• Proven experience delivering mass spectrometry/proteomics projects.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for quantitative proteomics and structural proteomics pipelines.
• Ensure optimal operation and quality control of mass spectrometers and related instruments.
• Communicate with facility users and provide advice on experimental strategy.
• Coordinate with Facility Head to adjust workflows and operations.
• Coordinate with the bioinformatician for data analysis across projects.
• Manage multiple projects and provide progress updates to users and Facility Head.
• Keep up to date with field developments and contribute to publications.

Skills

Quantitative proteomics

Mass spectrometry

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Independent working

Education

PhD in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

Mass spectrometers

Data analysis software

Job description

£44,801 to £47,071 per annum

Overall purpose:

The Biological Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) seeks an investigator scientist to provide quantitative proteomics services across a broad range of research projects in cell and molecular biology. The successful candidate will work as part of a dynamic and collaborative team of facility staff and with research groups in the LMB. They will execute quantitative proteomics workflows and maintain the associated cutting-edge mass spectrometers. These will include high throughput labelled and label free proteomics, phosphoproteomics, and analysis of protein interactions using hydrogen/deuterium exchange and crosslinking mass spectrometry. They will perform data analysis of the results and communicate the findings to users of the Facility. They will provide training to users in sample preparation for quantitative proteomics where appropriate.

Main duties:

• Prepare samples for quantitative proteomics and structural proteomics pipelines
• Ensure optimal operation and quality control of mass spectrometers and associated instruments
• Communicate with Facility users and where appropriate, provide advice on experimental strategy
• Coordinate with the Facility Head to adjust workflows and facility operations where appropriate
• Coordinate with the Facility bioinformatician to provide data analysis of projects
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously and provide progress updates to users and Facility Head
• Keep up to date with developments in the field
• Contribute to research publications through data analysis and production of relevant figures
• Train students, postdoctoral scientists and others where appropriate in sample preparation
• Present work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings

Key responsibilities:

The key responsibility is to undertake proteomic analysis of cutting edge research, aimed at key questions within the remit of the different research groups that use the Biological Mass Spectrometry Facility within the LMB. You will be expected to provide the intellectual energy and independent thinking necessary to deliver the data.

To prepare samples and analyse them in the various mass spectrometry pipelines available in the facility.

You will be expected to have the skill and understanding to be able to act independently in solving problems, many of which may require novel approaches. This may require the integration of different mass spectrometry pipelines to ensure the successful delivery of results to the facility users.

To interact effectively with the other facility staff and users (students, postdoc and others). This could include training others in the appropriate sample preparation methods (as needed).

To maintain accurate records of sample preparation workflows and mass spectrometry analysis for each project, in line with the facility SOPs.

To assist with the writing of scientific papers and grant applications when appropriate.

To ensure that research is conducted in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.

To have a broad, balanced and informed perspective of current scientific developments especially those pertaining directly to the area of mass spectrometry driven proteomics.

To agree the overall strategic direction of the Biological Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility.

To perform MS data search in the available search engines and liaise with the facility bioinformatician whenever customised statistical tests and data interpretation are more appropriate.

Working relationships:

You will report to the Head of the Mass Spectrometry Facility and will liaise with other Research Support staff, Postdoctoral Scientists and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external collaborators.

Person requirements

Academic qualifications and experience:

PhD in a relevant biological subject (Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry or a related field) and a track record of academic and professional achievement.

Postdoctoral experience in a mass spectrometry facility in academia or industry with focus on proteomics/structural proteomics sample analysis.

Experience with sample preparation in the context of shared scientific facilities (mass spectrometry) with a broad range of biological subjects.

Proven experience in delivering mass spectrometry/proteomics projects.

Technical skills and expertise:

Essential criteria:

• Significant experience with labelled (i.e., TMT; SILAC) and label free sample preparation workflows.
• Significant experience in handing all aspects of data acquisition using mass spectrometry (mass spectrometer/HPLC maintenance and troubleshooting, evaluation of quality control standards, method optimization)
• Significant experience in a wide range of mass spectrometers and types of mass analysers.
• Significant experience in quantitative analysis of protein post-translational modifications (i.e., phosphorylation; ubiquitination)
• Experience in analysing mass spectrometry quantitative proteomic datasets - labelled (TMT and SILAC) and label free datasets.
• Experience in maintaining a reproducible record of the analysis performed in each project.
• In-depth knowledge of proteomics techniques, workflows, combined with natural curiosity and ability to ramp up quickly in new areas.
• Strong self-initiative and determination with a bias for action, enthusiasm for taking on new projects and operating independently in a fast-paced growth environment.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and determine priorities.
• Excellent organizational, time management and communication skills and the ability to work effectively and independently in an interdisciplinary, team-oriented, collaborative, high-performance environment.

Desirable criteria:

• Significant experience in targeted protein quantification workflows.
• Experience in studying protein dynamics using hydrogen/deuterium exchange.
• Experience in crosslinking mass spectrometry analysis.

Track record of research:

This will include discoveries and significant achievements, and a track record of communicating research at national and international conferences.

Other relevant evidence of:

Science communication

Originality

Communication skills

Commitment

Corporate/Local responsibilities & requirements

You must at all times carry out your responsibilities with due regard to the UKRI:

• Code of Conduct
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
• Health and Safety policy
• Data Protection policy

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI.

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.