Postdoctoral Scientist - PNAC - Dr John Sutherland - LMB 2750

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme (defined benefit)

Holiday entitlement 40.5 days per year

Employee discount scheme

Training and development opportunities

Job summary

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, UK, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scientist Training Scheme in the lab of John Sutherland. The role focuses on prebiotic RNA replication chemistry and the emergence of RNA-directed peptide synthesis.

A PhD in a relevant field is required or due within 6 months, with a background in (bio)organic synthesis. This three-year training position is ideal for recent PhD graduates or those seeking to move into new research areas while developing

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant biological subject or be due to complete within 6 months.
• Background in (bio)organic synthesis and preferably experience of nucleotide, RNA, amino acid and peptide chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Research on prebiotic RNA replication chemistry and the emergence of RNA-directed peptide synthesis.
• Work within the John Sutherland laboratory to advance the project aims.

Skills

Bioorganic synthesis

Nucleotide chemistry

RNA chemistry

Amino acid chemistry

Peptide chemistry

Education

PhD in a biological subject

Job description

Postdoctoral Scientist Training Scheme

Salary £42,694 per annum

Fixed term for 3 years

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of John Sutherland. The project is concerned with prebiotic RNA replication chemistry and the emergence of RNA-directed peptide synthesis.

As the successful applicant you should have a PhD in a relevant biological subject or be due to complete within 6 months. You should also have a background in (bio)organic synthesis and preferably have experience of nucleotide, RNA, amino acid and peptide chemistry.

This is a three-year training and development position suitable for you if you have recently completed your doctoral studies, or you are looking to move into a new research discipline and/or need to further develop your research skills. Working with our world class scientists you will be working in an Institute renowned for its excellent scientific facilities and high-quality research.

The LMB has a collaborative working culture and state-of-the-art building on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have excellent public transport on site including the Cambridge South train station (a two-minute walk from the lab), cycle enclosures and on-site parking. We have a staff restaurant with roof terrace and access to a Campus nursery and sports and social facilities. You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme, a holiday entitlement of 40.5 days per annum (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing training and development opportunities including support towards role-related qualifications. Further information about the benefits available can be found at http://www.discover.ukri.org/benefits-of-working-at-ukri.

The LMB is a world-class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is nine research councils, working together across all disciplines and sectors. More information can be found at www.ukri.organd https://mrclmb.ac.uk/.

Closing date: 17 September 2026

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

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes 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].