Investigator Scientist – Structural Studies – LMB 2799
Open Date: 20/03/2026, 08:00
Close Date: 06/04/2026, 23:55
Location: Cambridge
Contract Type: Fixed Term until 31 March 2031
Job Type: Science
Full Time
Overview
Lead one or more projects investigating the molecular mechanism of telomere maintenance, developing biochemical methods to prepare human telomeric complexes for structural characterization by cryo-EM, and act as a focus of expertise on protein purification and structural biology.
Responsibilities
* Define the direction of research projects, conduct research, analyse data, and prepare work for publication and dissemination at meetings.
* Contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on new techniques or equipment and propose or implement changes of direction as necessary.
* Identify, develop, and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue research objectives, collaborating with others to achieve joint projects.
* Prepare research for publication and present work at seminars and external meetings.
* Train students, postdoctoral scientists and others; undertake line management of group members where appropriate.
* Support MRC’s engagement with the public and translation of research findings into healthcare improvements.
* Ensure research is conducted in accordance with good practice and local policies, recognise opportunities for intellectual property creation, and cooperate in patent protection and exploitation.
* Identify new equipment needs, present case studies for new purchases, and seek additional funding through external grant applications.
Portfolio of Key Responsibilities
* Execute cutting‑edge research, providing intellectual energy and independent thinking necessary to deliver outcomes and shape group aims.
* Integrate activities across disciplines, introduce new techniques, and develop novel approaches to problem solving.
* Interact effectively with staff, students, and collaborators, manage communal resources, and potentially take responsibility for equipment management.
* Write scientific papers and present findings at internal and external conferences.
* Manage and train staff, apply MRC policies for performance management, and develop team members.
Working Relationships
Report to Dr Kelly Nguyen; liaise with research support staff, postdoctoral scientists, students, and external collaborators.
Academic Qualifications and Experience
* PhD in a relevant biological subject.
* Significant postdoctoral research experience in cell biology, biochemistry, and structural biology.
Technical Skills and Expertise
* Proven ability to perform relevant techniques, especially molecular biology, protein/nucleic acid biochemistry, genome editing of human cells, and cryo-EM.
Track Record of Research
* Demonstrated achievements and significant contributions to published papers.
Other Relevant Evidence of
* Commitment.
* Originality.
* Ability to communicate.
* Working with others.
Further Information
Carry out responsibilities with due regard to UKRI Code of Conduct, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy, Health and Safety policy, and Data Protection policy. Regular review of role description and annual appraisal with manager.
Security and Vetting
Required level of security screening/vetting; UKRI reserves the right to run or re‑run security clearance as required.
Open Benefits
Benefits include defined benefit pension scheme, 30 days plus 2.5 privilege days & 8 bank holidays, family‑friendly policies, travel discounts, Employee Assistant Programme, Health and Wellbeing Support, salary sacrifice cycle, and access to a wide range of training & development.
EEO Statement
We warmly invite people from diverse backgrounds, including those who identify as having a disability, to apply. As “Disability Confident” employers, any candidate who opts into the scheme and best meets the essential criteria will be shortlisted for interview.
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