Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Signalling)

The Babraham Institute; Hoddesdon; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute in the UK is seeking a talented Postdoctoral Research Scientist to investigate protein quality control mechanisms. The position involves developing independent research in C. elegans, utilizing biochemical techniques, and requires a PhD in a relevant field. This role offers opportunities for career development and is in a collaborative environment promoting diversity and excellence. Starting salary is £34,500 annually if PhD not awarded yet.

Benefits

Access to career development courses

High-quality scientific training

Supportive workplace culture

Qualifications

• Develop an independent research project on protein quality control mechanisms.
• Utilize in vitro assays and in vivo studies in C. elegans.
• Strong track record in academic research required.

Responsibilities

• Investigate mechanisms of protein aggregation and proteostasis.
• Conduct imaging, proteomics, and functional assays.
• Explore how extracellular proteostasis influences organismal health.

Skills

Molecular cloning

Biochemical techniques

Protein purification

Western blotting

Microscopy

Cell culture

Proteomics

C. elegans research

Education

PhD in biochemistry, cellular or molecular biology

Job description

We are seeking an enthusiastic and talented Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join the David group at the Babraham Institute in Cambridge. Our overarching goal is to discover mechanisms that promote healthy ageing and alleviate age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Our group has uncovered mechanisms that prevent age-related protein aggregation, a major contributor to functional decline. Notably, we discovered a proteostasis network that safeguards proteins from aggregation in the extracellular space in C. elegans (PMID: 32641833). Our group is embedded within the Signalling Programme, which offers a vibrant, collaborative environment and access to world‑class facilities.

Research Project

In this role, you will have the opportunity to develop an independent research project investigating mechanisms of protein quality control in the extracellular space. Your work will combine in vitro assays to characterize protein aggregation and in vivo studies in C. elegans using imaging, proteomics, and functional assays to explore how extracellular proteostasis influences organismal health. This position is ideal for a curiosity‑driven scientist who thrives on tackling challenging questions and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Applicants should hold a PhD in biochemistry, cellular or molecular biology, or a related discipline, and demonstrate a strong track record in academic research. Prior experience in molecular cloning and biochemical techniques, including protein purification and western blotting, is essential. Additional expertise in microscopy, cell culture and proteomics is highly desirable, and familiarity with C. elegans research would be advantageous, although not

About the Babraham Institute

The Babraham Institute is a charity, world renowned for its research in life sciences to enhance lives and improve wellbeing. Postdocs have access to excellent career development courses in the Postdoc Academy (University of Cambridge) and high-quality scientific training is offered by the different core facilities at the Babraham Institute. The Babraham Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award and is committed to promoting and developing a culture of excellence, diversity and mutual respect that supports the Institute's ambitions and attracts highly motivated and talented people. The Babraham Institute is a Disability Confident Employer and has a positive approach to employing disabled people.

Salary and Eligibility

Applicants must hold a PhD or have their thesis submitted when commencing the post. Please note that you will be appointed on the starting salary of £34,500 per annum, if you have not yet been awarded your PhD.