2 Post-doctoral Positions in the laboratory of Dr Miratul Muqit to decipher cell signalling pathways in Parkinson’s disease, funded by a Wellcome Trust Senior Fellowship

The aim of the projects will be to better understand the regulation and downstream biology of the PINK1 kinase and Parkin ubiquitin E3 ligase that are mutated in familial forms of Parkinson’s disease. These studies have the potential to transform our understanding of the molecular basis of Parkinson’s disease-linked neurodegeneration and the candidate’s research may ultimately be exploited to improve diagnostic and therapeutic options for patients.

The successful applicant will have access to state-of-the-art technologies in biochemistry, proteomics, genome editing, cell biology, and transgenic in-vivo models’ to uncover new fundamental knowledge on these key molecules. The lab houses a newly refurbished suite for primary neuron culture studies and access to state-of-the-art in-vivo model facilities.

The laboratory is part-funded by EMBO and successful applicants will have access to EMBO sponsored opportunities for training and self-development. The MRC unit also collaborates with three major pharmaceutical companies that support the Division of Signal Transduction Therapy that provides opportunities for interaction with industry and potential exploitation of new discoveries made in the lab
Both positions are available for 3 years in the first instance.

Candidate requirements:

- PhD with an outstanding track record and at least one first authored publication in an internationally recognised peer-reviewed journal.
- Strong background in any one of Cell Signalling, Neurobiology, Molecular Biology, and Biochemistry would be preferable.
- Capable of working in a team, but able to plan and work independently.
- Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English.

For informal enquiries please contact Miratul Muqit m.muqit@dundee.ac.uk.

The Muqit lab is based in the MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC PPU), one of the world’s most renowned centres for research on protein phosphorylation and ubiquitylation and is an exciting and collaborative research environment, equipped to the highest international standards. The major aims of the MRC PPU are to advance understanding of the role of protein phosphorylation and ubiquitylation in cell regulation and human disease; to facilitate the development of drugs to treat diseases caused by abnormalities in phosphorylation; and to generate reagents and improve technologies. Another key remit of the MRC PPU is to train the next generation of scientists who will advance our understanding in this crucial area of medical research.

Appointment as a Postdoctoral Research Assistant on the Grade 7 salary scale is dependent upon you having been awarded a PhD. An appointment may be considered if you are shortly expected to be awarded a PhD. The initial appointment will be made as a Research Assistant on the Training Grade 7 salary scale (Spinal Point 28, £30,688).

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