Join Us | Postdoctoral Research Assistant

with

Reference Number
UOD2185
Closing Date
Salary
Grade 7 (£37,174 - £40,497)

The Project: Identification of Cellular Substrates and Functions for Atypical E3 Ligases

We are recruiting for an exceptional individual to join us as a Postdoctoral researcher within our MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit. This is a fixed-term appointment for 36 months.

Background: The traditional view of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) centres on the formation of isopeptide bonds between the C-terminus of ubiquitin and substrate lysine residues. However, recent breakthroughs have identified a "non-lysine" frontier. We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant to investigate the biochemical mechanisms and cellular roles of MYCBP2 (a threonine-directed ester-E3) and RNF213 (a lipid-directed E3).

The Role: The successful candidate will utilise a multidisciplinary approach combining advanced mass spectrometry workflows, cell biology and biochemistry to:

  • Develop and deploy new technologies to enrich and identify novel ester-linked or non-proteinaceous ubiquitin conjugates.

  • Characterise the "atypical ubiquitome" of MYCBP2 and RNF213 in response to neurotrophic factors and immunological stress.

  • Elucidate the structural basis for substrate recognition and non-canonical chemistry using biochemical analysis

Requirements:

  • A Ph.D. in Biochemistry, cell biology, or a related discipline.

  • Expertise in biochemistry, mammalian cell biology and structural biology.

  • Experience with E3 ligase biochemistry or Ubl-signaling.

  • A strong publication record.

We Offer:

  • Access to state-of-the-art life science facilities including MS-proteomics and cryo-EM.

  • A collaborative environment for multidisciplinary research.

  • Support for independent fellowship applications.

1. Squair, D.R., Virdee, S. A new dawn beyond lysine ubiquitination. Nat Chem Biol 18, 802–811 (2022), https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-022-01088-2.

2. Pao et al. Activity-based E3 ligase profiling uncovers an E3 ligase with esterification activity. Nature 556, 381-385 (2018), doi:10.1038/s41586-018-0026-1

3. De Cesare et al. Deubiquitinating enzyme amino acid profiling reveals a class of ubiquitin esterases. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 118(4):e2006947118 (2021), doi: 10.1073/pnas.2006947118.

Your priorities will include:

  • Molecular biology-based molecule cloning and construct design

  • Design and implementation of engineered cell lines

  • Development of novel PTM enrichment workflows for mass spectrometry

  • Biochemical and structural characterisation

  • Maintenance of lab records comprehensive

What were looking for:

  • Experience with the ubiquitin system

  • Experience with biochemistry and cell culture methods

  • Excellent communication skills

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
UOD2185
.
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.