Postdoctoral Scientist - Structural Studies

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology.; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute in the UK is seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist to engage in a Wellcome Trust funded project focused on understanding the molecular basis of signalling in human pathogenic fungi. The successful candidate will contribute to the determination of membrane protein complexes via cryo-electron microscopy, aiding in the development of specific inhibitors. Candidates should possess a PhD in a relevant field and have some relevant experience. Excellent working culture and benefits are included.

Benefits

On-site parking

Cycle enclosures

Staff restaurant with roof terrace

Defined benefit pension scheme

40.5 days holiday

Qualifications

• You should have a PhD in a relevant subject or be close to completion.
• Significant postdoctoral experience in cryo-EM and related techniques is required for Investigator Scientist level.
• You should have relevant experience during your PhD.

Responsibilities

• Understand the molecular basis of signalling in fungi.
• Develop specific inhibitors for testing.
• Contribute to a close-knit team of scientists.

Skills

Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM)

Molecular biology techniques

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in relevant subject

Tools

Eukaryotic expression systems

Membrane protein purification

Job description

Overview

Postdoctoral Scientist
Salary £42,694-£47,071 per annum
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK

A postdoctoral position is available immediately to work within a Wellcome Trust funded consortium on human pathogenic fungi. The role is to understand the molecular basis of signalling in Aspergillus fumigatus through the structure determination of membrane protein complexes by electron cryomicroscopy (cryo-EM). Structures will be used to screen virtual libraries of small molecules to develop specific inhibitors that will be tested for efficacy in models of fungal pathogenicity and virulence.

Appointments

The successful candidate will be appointed to one of our postdoctoral training schemes or at an Investigator Scientist level, depending on skills and experience.

Postdoctoral training scheme appointment – 3 Years

Salary: £42,694 per annum. You should have a PhD in relevant subject or be due to complete your PhD within 6 months. You will also have some relevant experience gained during your PhD. 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.

Investigator Scientist appointment – 5 Years

Salary: £44,801 - £47,071 per annum. You should have a PhD in a relevant subject and will have significant postdoctoral experience of cryo-EM, eukaryotic expression systems and membrane protein purification. You will also have considerable contributions to published papers. This is a five-year position aligned with the external funding.

Responsibilities and expectations

Appointment at either level you will have the creativity, tenacity and internal drive to take a challenging project from conception to completion and be able to work effectively within a close-knit team of like-minded scientists.

Environment and benefits

The LMB has a collaborative working culture and state-of-the-art building based on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have on-site parking, cycle enclosures and excellent public transport links to the site. 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 (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.

About UKRI and further information

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.org and www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

Application details

Closing date: 4th March 2026

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

Equality, diversity and inclusion

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 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].