Determining the impact of AMPK activation on autophagy and mitophagy

We are seeking a talented postdoc to work in the laboratory of Ian Ganley at the Medical Research Council’s Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU) in Dundee. This is part of a collaborative project led by Kei Sakamoto’s group at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research (CBMR, University of Copenhagen).

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master regulator of energy homeostasis, is a target for drugs designed to combat the growing epidemic of metabolic disorders. One consequence of changing AMPK activity is an impact on cellular autophagy, a key catabolic pathway also implicated in metabolic disorders. However, the physiological significance of AMPK activation and effects on tissue-specific autophagy are unclear. The Ganley Lab has developed state-of-the-art models that allow comparative analyses of autophagy and mitophagy in vivo (PMID: 34340748, 27458135, 29337137, 30786807). With these, the successful candidate will utilise pharmacology and genetics, combined with high-resolution microscopy and biochemistry, to determine how and when AMPK regulates autophagy and mitophagy - with the hopes of identifying therapeutic strategies.

Candidate Requirements:

• PhD with outstanding academic record and at least one first authored publication in a recognised peer-reviewed journal.
• Strong background in animal models and cell biology would be beneficial.
• Capable of working in a team, but able to plan and work independently.
• Excellent communication skills and knowledge of the English language.

The position is fixed term, with funding currently available until 30 May 2024. Salary will depend on experience, but the appointment will be made on the University's Grade 7 salary scale.

An appointment may be considered if you are shortly expected to be awarded a PhD. In this case the initial appointment would be made as a Research Assistant on the Training Grade 7 salary scale.

MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (PPU)
The successful applicants will have the opportunity to work in an exciting and collaborative research environment, equipped to the highest international standards. The MRC-PPU is in a beautiful location overlooking the River Tay and embedded within the School of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee: one of the premier Life Sciences research Centres in the world. For further details consult: http://www.ppu.mrc.ac.uk

Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research (CBMR)
CBMR was established in 2010 at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. The CBMR aims to strengthen interdisciplinary research that transforms the basic understanding of mechanisms involved in metabolic health and disease, and to accelerate this knowledge toward new prevention and treatment strategies. For further details consult: https://cbmr.ku.dk/

Additional Information:

The University's statement on the use of animals in research can be found here: https://www.dundee.ac.uk/research/governance-policy/policyroadmap/statement-on-use-of-animals/

As an internationally diverse institution, we welcome job applicants from all countries and nationalities. The School of Life Sciences is proud to employ staff from over 40 different nations.

The diversity of our staff and students helps to make the University of Dundee one of the top universities in the UK. Family friendly policies, staff support networks for BME and LGBT staff, membership of Athena Swan and Stonewall, as well a full range of disability services, create an enjoyable and inclusive place to work.