We are recruiting highly motivated Research Technicians to participate in a new academic-industrial global initiative supported by the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, aimed at accelerating the development of Parkinson’s disease therapeutics. The project aims to explore and validate new approaches to target LRRK2 and to perform systematic mechanistic, structural and safety analyses to benchmark new LRRK2 modifiers that emerge from this effort. The postholder will be involved in characterizing molecules targeting the LRRK2 pathway (developed through academic or Industry efforts) using a variety of techniques, working closely with the other members of the research team. This exciting position enables further training in state-of-the-art methods through the course of the project and involves wider collaboration with Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit members, other academic Institutions worldwide and Industry partners working in this area.

The appointed post holder will be based within the laboratory of Dario Alessi within the University of Dundee’s MRC
Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC PPU)

Your priorities will include:
• To undertake research in the relevant discipline area using the appropriate methods and/or techniques
• To support the production of research reports and/or publications as required by the funding body or for dissemination to the wider academic community
• To collaborate with research colleagues and support staff internally as appropriate to the research
• To undertake any other duties relevant to the programme of research as required
• For Grade 6 positions, the postholder will be expected to be able to work with minimal supervision, effectively plan own workload, and provide support and guidance to other members of the research team, as required

Who we’re looking for:
• Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant discipline
• Strong hands-on experience in one or more of the following is essential: Screening and characterisation of compounds in in vitro and in vivo assays; SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting techniques; Quantitative enzyme assays, including kinase assays; Data analysis
• Hands-on experience in experimental techniques and data analysis that are relevant to the role
• Knowledge and interest in understanding pathways that are linked to neurodegeneration and Parkinson’s disease
• Experience of working in a fast paced, ideally commercially-focused environment, and ability to manage competing deadlines and priorities are highly desirable
• Ability to work in a team in a highly collaborative manner, embracing the principles of Open Science
• Excellent interpersonal and organisational skills
• Excellent knowledge of the English language is essential

Additional requirements for Grade 6 positions include:
• MSc in a relevant discipline
• Experience in independent research projects
• Experience in multi-institutional and/or industry collaborations is highly desirable

For further information about this position please contact please contact Prof. Dario Alessi (d.r.alessi@dundee.ac.uk)
or Dr Francesca Tonelli (f.tonelli@dundee.ac.uk)