Open Date: 06/03/2026, 08:00
Close Date: 05/04/2026, 23:55
Research Institute: MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB).
The LMB is a birth place of modern molecular biology and has developed many new techniques, including protein crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies.
Its goal is to understand biological processes at the molecular level and apply this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease.
The LMB is organised into four scientific divisions: Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology, with extensive collaboration across them.
Scientists at the LMB benefit from excellent core infrastructure and support from the LMB Operations Group, creating an international community that fosters technical innovation.
Nature: Fixed Term, 2 year contract, Salary £42,694 per annum. Location Cambridge. Job Type Science. Full Time.
Overall Purpose
Work within Dr Harvey McMahon’s group at LMB on a program studying the molecular mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s and other synucleinopathies.
Conduct research to identify factors that slow or prevent synuclein aggregation using a novel assay developed for detecting alpha‑synuclein aggregates in PD, MSA and DLB.
Goal: uncover key modulators and strategies to halt disease progression.
Main Duties
* Undertake research aimed at understanding Parkinson’s and related synucleinopathies.
* Identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue research objectives.
* Present scientific work at seminars in the laboratory and at external meetings.
* Contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on field developments.
* Draft scientific papers and assist in preparation of research for publication.
* Support LMB’s public engagement mission and translation of findings into healthcare improvements.
* Assist in training PhD students and other members of LMB.
Key Responsibilities
Collaborate with the Group Leader to shape the project over its two-year lifespan.
Plan and manage your own work and objectives on a 12‑month basis in partnership with your Supervisor.
Work with minimal supervision to identify, develop, modify and apply necessary techniques.
Introduce and implement new techniques across disciplines, showing creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches.
Ensure research is conducted in accordance with good practice and complies with local policies and legal requirements.
Contribute to efficient group operation, resource utilisation, training of others and responsible use of communal facilities.
Enhance your research and generic skills through a tailored development programme.
Working Relationships
Report to Dr Harvey McMahon and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, research support staff, students, and external groups as necessary.
Additional Information
This is a two-year training and development position for a Postdoctoral Scientist who has recently completed their doctoral studies or has limited experience of key transferable skills.
We support Postdoctoral Scientists with a range of formal and on‑the‑job training, including MRC training courses, external courses, one‑to‑one training with your Supervisor and other scientists.
Commitment: develop and follow a personal development plan; attend training courses; identify additional training to support your career.
Person Specification
Academic Qualifications – PhD in a relevant subject or to complete a PhD within 6 months.
Technical Skills and Expertise – Experience performing techniques relevant to the project, especially with neuronal cell cultures (primary neurons and iNeurons), cell biology methods (immunostaining, membrane trafficking). Experience measuring synaptic function an advantage.
Track Record of Research – Achievements and contributions to published papers.
Other Relevant Evidence – Commitment, originality, communication skills, teamwork.
Application Information
Applicants must submit a CV and cover letter.
* Code of Conduct
* Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
* Health and Safety policy
* Data Protection policy
Further Information
Job descriptions should be reviewed regularly and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be agreed between you and your manager.
Employees must act professionally, cooperatively, and flexibly in line with the post, MRC and UKRI requirements.
Security screening/vetting is required; UKRI reserves the right to run or re‑run security clearance during employment.
Benefits: defined benefit pension scheme, 30 days + 2.5 privilege days & 8 bank holidays, 6 months full pay maternity & adoption leave, shopping/travel discounts, Employee Assistant Programme Scheme, Health and Wellbeing Support, salary sacrifice scheme.
We commit to diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities. Any candidate who opts into the “Disability Confident” scheme and meets essential criteria will be shortlisted for interview.
UKRI supports research in areas including animal health, agriculture and food security, and bioscience for health. Applicants should consider if their personal values conflict with potential research.
We conduct comprehensive pre‑employment checks, including security and affinity checks.
#J-18808-Ljbffr