We are recruiting for a highly motivated and experienced postdoctoral scientist with considerable expertise in mass spectrometry to join the laboratory of Prof. Dario Alessi to undertake fundamental research to understand the molecular basis of neurodegenerative disorders. The work will focus on understanding the regulation and function of the LRRK2 signalling pathway and its interplay with other Parkinson’s disease components.

The successful applicant will work independently to design and undertake state of the art mass spectrometry studies. Our laboratory has access to advanced mass spectrometry instrumentation including Bruker tims-TOF SCP for ultra-sensitive-single cell proteomics. Orbitrap Exploris 480 with FAIMS-Pro, Orbitrap Lumos Tribrid with ETD, Orbitrap 240 and tims-TOF SCP and a Rapiflex Maldi-TOF instruments. In addition, we have two EvoSep and three Ultimate 3000 nano-liquid chromatography systems which are in-line with the MS instruments. We are in the process of purchasing the latest time-of-flight (TOF) system: the SCIEX ZenoTOF 7600 system for global high throughput sensitive MS analysis of phosphorylation and ubiquitylation site analysis. The successful applicant will perform, analyse, and interpret proteomics data. This position provides an exciting opportunity to be involved in world-class research project and enable the applicant to carve themselves a major international reputation.

Your priorities will include:

• Undertaking research aimed at understanding the molecular basis of neurodegeneration.
• Project development and implementation, including experimental design; identification and development of a broad range of techniques necessary to achieve the research.
• Working collaboratively and assisting with the training of PhD students and other lab members.
• Presenting scientific work at internal and external meetings.
• Contributing to the preparation of research for publication.

Who we’re looking for:

• Strong background in mass spectrometry with a significant publication track record.
• Excellent knowledge of quantitative proteomics workflows, sample preparation and data analysis of global proteomics and good understanding of statistical knowledge. Previous work with post-translational modifications would be advantageous.
• Experience in using instruments available within the MRC-PPU including Orbitrap Lumos and/or Bruker timsTOF and/or SCIEX ZenoTOF 7600.
• Capable of working as part of a team and able to aid the rest of the team.
• A good knowledge in Python, R and/or MATLab and ability to write and develop scripts as well as modify and implement open source or published code is desirable.
• Experience of collaboration is desirable.
• Experience in handling multi-omics (Integration of Proteomics, metabolomics or lipidomics) data is preferable but not necessary.
• A strong desire to participate and gain experience in undertaking biological studies to generate samples and validate data would be an advantage and training can be provided.
• Excellent communication skills and knowledge of the English language are essential.

This is a full-time position available for 3 years in the first instance. The appointment will be made on University’s Grade 7 salary scale, dependent on experience.

For further information about this position please contact Prof. Dario Alessi at d.r.alessi@dundee.ac.uk. To find out more about Prof. Alessi’s lab, please visit https://www.ppu.mrc.ac.uk/research/principal-investigator/dario-alessi.

The closing date for applications is 1st April 2023. We anticipate that interviews for this appointment will take place shortly thereafter.

MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC PPU):

The MRC PPU is one of the world’s most renowned centres for research on protein phosphorylation and ubiquitylation. Many world-leading researchers in the field of signal transduction have trained within the MRC PPU. 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, to generate reagents and improve technologies. A 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.

School of Life Sciences (SLS):

The MRC PPU is based within the School of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee, a world-class academic institution with a reputation for the excellence of its research, its high-quality teaching and student experience, and the strong impact of its activities outside academia. With 900 staff from over 60 countries worldwide the school provides a dynamic, multi-national, collegiate, and diverse environment with state-of-the-art laboratory, technology and teaching facilities.

We are one of the UK’s leading universities – internationally recognised for our expertise across a range of disciplines and research breakthroughs in multiple areas, including science, medicine, and engineering, amongst many others. Conveniently located on the banks of River Tay, our main city-centre campus is at the heart of Dundee - an up-and-coming, friendly, compact, and affordable city with a rich heritage in design and technology. Just a short walk from the V&A Museum of Design Dundee, we’re close to both the train and bus stations. We also have campuses at Ninewells Hospital and in Kirkcaldy which are easily accessible via local transport links.

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.