Join Us | Postdoctoral Research Assistant

with

Reference Number
SLSC0947
Closing Date
Salary
Grade 7 (£33,309 - £40,927)

Identifying and characterising small molecule inducers of autophagy

We are seeking a talented postdoctoral fellow to help identify and analyse pharmacological regulators of autophagy and mitophagy. Work will be carried out in the Ganley Lab at the Medical Research Council’s Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU), as well as the National Phenotypic Screening Centre (NPSC), both located within the University of Dundee. This is part of an exceptional academic-industrial collaboration led by Nanna Therapeutics.

The Ganley Lab studies the molecular regulation of autophagy, a cell protective process that when dysregulated has been linked to many diseases, including cancer and neurodegeneration. Given this, autophagy-based therapies have now emerged as an attractive target area. However, the detailed mechanisms of how autophagy is induced, and in particular that of mitophagy (autophagy of mitochondria), are far from clear. Therefore, what and when to target is not well-defined in terms of designing a therapeutic approach. Using small molecule libraries and assays developed in the Ganley Lab, we will use state-of-the-art high content phenotypic screening to identify autophagy and mitophagy activating compounds. Identification of such compounds will not only allow us to elucidate underlying autophagy mechanisms but also critically aid in drug development within this important area. The successful candidate will have the unique opportunity to be at the interface of cutting-edge high throughput screening, cell biological research and pharmaceutical drug development – all in a well-funded and equipped environment.

The position is initially available for 18 months. Salary will depend on experience, but the appointment will be made on the University's Grade 7 salary scale.

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. In this case the initial appointment would be made as a Research Assistant on the Training Grade 7 salary scale

Candidate Requirements:

  • PhD with outstanding academic record and at least one first authored publication.
  • Strong background in cell biology.
  • Experience with fluorescence-based microscopy and image analysis 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.

MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (PPU)
The MRC-PPU is an exciting and collaborative research environment, equipped to the highest international standards. We are 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. Further details: http://www.ppu.mrc.ac.uk

National Phenotypic Screening Centre
NPSC is an interdisciplinary centre that develops and screens innovative assays that move away from the traditional target-based approaches in order to discover chemical biology tool molecules and more effective drug start points – the assays embrace the complexity of biology and hence better reflect the pathophysiology of disease. Further details: https://www.lifesci.dundee.ac.uk/research/npsc

Nanna Therapeutics
Nanna Therapeutics Limited (an Astellas affiliate company) is a biotech company based in Cambridge UK working on new medicines to treat the unmet needs of patients, especially those with underlying faults in mitochondrial function that contribute to the cause of disease https://www.nannatherapeutics.com

Additional Information:

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 a UK university of choice for undergraduate, postgraduate and distance learning. Family friendly policies, staff networks for BME, Disabled and LGBT staff, membership of Athena SWAN, the ECU Race Equality Charter and Stonewall as well a full range of disability services, create an enjoyable and inclusive place to work.

Application:
To apply on-line please visit: www.dundee.ac.uk/jobs. If you are unable to apply on-line please contact Human Resources on (01382) 386209 (answering machine) for an application pack. Please quote reference number
Reference Number
SLSC0947
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The University of Dundee is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

The University of Dundee is a diverse community and is committed to equality of opportunity for all by providing a supportive, flexible and inclusive working environment. We have family friendly policies (including flexible working and childcare vouchers), staff groups for LGBT and BME; and prayer room facilities.

The University of Dundee has received the Athena SWAN Bronze Award which recognises the promotion of gender equality and has made further commitment to advancing inclusive culture which supports and encourages all under-represented groups.

The University of Dundee is a Scottish Registered Charity, No. SC015096.