Research Technician in Structural Virology

University of York; York; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a research technician to join a leading biology department in the UK. This role focuses on investigating bacteriophage targeting Bacteroides species in the human gut microbiome, utilizing advanced techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy and biophysical analysis. The successful candidate will collaborate within a supportive environment, contributing to cutting-edge research and gaining access to state-of-the-art facilities. This position is ideal for those passionate about structural biology and eager to enhance their skills in a dynamic research setting.

Qualifications

• Familiarity with structural biology principles and techniques.
• Experience in molecular biology and protein purification.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research under supervision and contribute to research production.
• Expression and purification of bacteriophage proteins and virions.

Skills

Protein purification

Molecular biology

Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM)

Biophysical characterisation

NMR for protein characterisation

Job description

Department

A 12-month research technician position is available to investigate the structure and infection mechanisms of bacteriophage targeting Bacteroides species in the human gut microbiome. This project is funded by the Wellcome Trust and led by Dr Oliver Bayfield.

The successful candidate will join a collaborative and supportive environment in the Department of Biology, working closely with Dr Bayfield and the York Structural Biology Laboratory (YSBL). The focus will be on determining the structure of receptor-binding proteins (RBPs) and their complexes using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), complemented by biochemical and biophysical characterisation. The role will include supporting other researchers and assisting with general lab and organisational tasks, including sample preparation and data collection.

The York Structural Biology Laboratory (YSBL) provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and X-ray crystallography equipment housed in the Eleanor and Guy Dodson Building. Additionally, the Department of Biology's Bioscience Technology Facility offers extensive core infrastructure for imaging, biophysics, proteomics, and biochemical characterisation.

The Department of Biology is one of the UK’s leading biology departments, internationally recognised for research excellence and consistently ranked among the best for student satisfaction. We strive to provide a working environment which allows all staff and students to contribute fully, flourish, and excel, and we aim to ensure that there is a supportive and egalitarian culture across all staff groups and career stages.

Role

To conduct research under the supervision of senior colleagues and to contribute to the production of research. In particular to:

• Expression and purification of bacteriophage proteins and virions
• Molecular cloning and genetic manipulation of phage and host systems
• Optimisation of protein-receptor complexes
• Cryo-EM grid preparation, data collection, and image processing
• Biochemical and biophysical analysis of proteins and receptor interactions
• To undertake organisational activities including maintenance of lab databases and stocks

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• Familiarity with structural biology principles and techniques, including protein production and biophysical characterisation

• Experience in molecular biology and in protein purification

• Experience in protein engineering by rational design and machine-learning methods

• Demonstrated ability in using NMR for protein characterisation

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: Please contact Dr Oliver Bayfield at [e-mail]