Overview
Applications are invited for a Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) funded post-doctoral position in Dr Graham Christie’s lab within the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology.
The project will combine protein crystallography with in vivo microbiological analyses to yield insight into the molecular mechanisms that regulate the activity of the major peptidoglycan lysin involved in Bacillus spp. spore germination. Crystallography will also be used to conduct high-throughput fragment-based screens to assess whether the lysin is ligandable and potentially amenable to structure-led inhibition.
The appointed PDRA will liaise with a second PDRA at the University of Leeds conducting Molecular Dynamics simulations to examine structural changes to protein complexes during spore germination. The Cambridge PDRA will test MD predictions by site-directed mutagenesis and in vivo functional analyses.
Responsibilities
* Carry out protein crystallography experiments linked to in vivo microbiological analyses.
* Contribute to high-throughput fragment-based screening to evaluate ligandability of the lysin.
* Collaborate with the MD-focused project to validate predictions through mutagenesis and functional assays.
* Work within the research team under the supervision of Dr Graham Christie and coordinate with collaborators.
Qualifications
* PhD in molecular microbiology or structural biology.
* Essential experience in molecular cloning and recombinant protein expression/purification.
* Desirable: experience in protein crystallography or related structural biology; training available if needed.
* Strong teamwork, administrative, interpersonal skills, and high computer literacy for bioinformatics and structural biology tools.
Appointment and terms
* Appointment at Research Associate level requires a PhD; without a PhD, appointment is at Research Assistant level. If a PhD has been submitted but not yet awarded, appointment will be at Research Assistant level, amended to Research Associate upon award.
* Fixed-term: funds available for 3 years in the first instance.
How to apply
Click the Apply button below to register an account with the recruitment system (if not already registered) and apply online.
Contact and additional information
Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Mr Vito Candela, HR Administrator, at hr@ceb.cam.ac.uk.
Applications closing date: 3 October 2025. Please quote reference NQ47252 in your application and any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality and eligibility
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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