We are looking for an exceptional individual to join the Sapkota Lab as a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on an innovative project aimed at targeting Wnt signalling in cancer. Hyperactive Wnt signalling is associated with colorectal and other cancers. We have discovered that the poorly charcaterised proteins FAM83F and FAM83G activate Wnt signalling through association with the ser/thr kinase CK1-alpha (PMIDs: 29514862; 33361109; 33361334, 31656861). The FAM83 proteins direct CKl family of kinases to specific subcellular compartments and potentially substrates (PMID: 29789297, 31338967). This project aims to understand the molecular mechanisms by which FAM83F and FAM83G activate Wnt signalling, establish the molecular basis of their interaction with CK1-alpha and explore if targeted degradation of FAM83F and FAM83G is sufficient to inhibit Wnt-dependent proliferation of colorectal cancers. The project will employ a range of cutting-edge technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, Cryo-EM & crystallography, mass-spectrometry, organoid models, DEL screens to identify tool compounds, and development of optimized compounds into PROTACs.

For details of the Sapkota lab research, please visit https://sites.dundee.ac.uk/sapkota-lab/. For more information, please contact Gopal Sapkota (gsapkota@dundee.ac.uk)

Your priorities will include:

• Project development and implementation, including experimental design and development of cell lines using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. Develop tools and workflows to dissect WNT signalling pathway and cell proliferation and consequences of targeted degradation of specific FAM83-CK1 complexes.
• Undertaking research aimed at understanding the molecular basis of FAM83-CK1 interaction by employing structural approaches.
• Performing protein purifications for structural studies and biophysical measurements of protein-protein interactions.
• Working closely and collaboratively with a team of postdoctoral fellow and PhD students working on different FAM83 proteins.
• Discussing scientific work at internal meetings, meetings with DSTT industrial partners and at conferences.

Who we’re looking for:

• PhD with an outstanding track record and at least one first-authored publication in an internationally recognised peer-reviewed journal.
• Strong background in cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, and signal transduction, with expertise in protein chemistry and reversible protein phosphorylation desirable.
• Strong background in protein expression and structural biology is desirable.
• Strong background in WNT signalling and cancer biology is desirable.
• Capable of working in a diverse team, but able to plan and work independently.
• Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English.