Postdoctoral Researcher

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB); Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 43,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent research laboratory in Cambridge seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher to join Dr. Suyang Zhang's team. The role involves investigating co-transcriptional splicing mechanisms using biochemical and structural methods. A PhD in biological sciences, experience in structural biology, and strong communication skills are required. The position offers a comprehensive training and development package, competitive salary, and generous benefits, including a pension scheme and 40.5 days holiday.

Benefits

Defined benefit pension scheme

40.5 days holiday including bank holidays

Generous employee discount scheme

Training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Candidates must hold a PhD in biological sciences or be close to completion.
• Strong background in structural biology is essential.
• Experience with mammalian cell work is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the mechanics of co-transcriptional splicing in RNA.
• Utilize biochemical and structural approaches, focusing on cryo-EM.
• Conduct research that enhances understanding of transcription and splicing.

Skills

Strong background in structural biology

Experience in protein purification

Good communication skills

Ability to work independently

Education

PhD in biological sciences or completion within 6 months

Job description

Postdoctoral Researcher – MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK

Salary: £42,694 per annum

We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher to join Dr Suyang Zhang’s group to investigate the mechanism of co‑transcriptionallicing. The project aims to understand the mechanism of crosstalk between the transcription and splicing machineries using a combined biochemical and structural approach with a focus on cryo‑EM and isolation from endogenous sources.

In eukaryotes, RNA synthesis and splicing are intricately coupled to each other to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of pre‑mRNA processing. Despite advances in our understanding of transcription and splicing as two separate processes, the molecular mechanisms underlying co‑transcriptional splicing in a cellular context remain to be elucidated. We have defined the structural basis for the co‑transcriptional recruitment of U1 snRNP (Science 2021, Nature comms 2025), which provided a model of how distant intron ends can be functionally paired for splicing. Additionally, we have discovered a regulatory mechanism that modulates Pol II elongation rate, shedding light on how Pol II speed may change across introns and exons (NSMB 2025).

Candidate requirements: PhD in biological sciences or completion within 6 months; strong background in structural biology, biochemistry or cell biology. Experience in protein purification and mammalian cell work desirable. Ability to work independently and good communication skills for teamwork.

This is a three‑year training and development position suitable for recently completed doctoral graduates or those looking to move into a new research discipline, or to further develop research skills.

For further information, please visit: https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/group-leaders/t-to-z/suyang-zhang/
Informal enquiries are welcomed and can be sent directly to Suyang Zhang ([e-mail])

Benefits include a defined benefit pension scheme, a holiday entitlement of 40.5 days (including bank holidays and privileged days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing training and development opportunities including support towards role‑related qualifications.

Closing date: 11th February 2026.

Final appointments will be subject to a pre‑employment screening.

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes women, minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under‑represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require; [e-mail].