School of Biosciences
Location: Canterbury
Salary: £34,804 to £39,152 per annum
Grade: Grade 7
Post Type: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed Term - 36 Months
Release Date: Wednesday 17 March 2021
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Wednesday 14 April 2021 (unless otherwise stated)
Interview Date: Tuesday 27 April 2021
Reference: NATS-027-21

The School of Biosciences are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious researcher with experience in protein biochemistry to work under the supervision of Dr Andrew Lawrence on a project funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).

The aim of the project is to investigate the biosynthesis of 5,6-dimethylbenzimidazole (DMB), the unusual base that distinguishes cobalamin as an essential mammalian vitamin (B12) from over twenty other non-active forms of cobamide. It was recently discovered that the pathway requires two B12-dependent radical SAM enzymes which raises a “catch 22” question of whether cobalamin is required for its own synthesis. The successful candidate will investigate the structure and function of several SAM dependent enzymes involved in this pathway. You will require excellent skills in molecular biology, protein production and purification, as well as in enzyme assay. Experience in HPLC-MS, NMR, protein crystallography or characterisation of air-sensitive proteins is desirable.

The award of a PhD in Biochemistry or related subject is required prior to taking up this position. Candidates in the final stages of completing their degree are encouraged to apply provided they can provide a reference attesting that their PhD viva will be held by the end of May 2021.

Appointment of the successful candidate is expected to start not later than 1 June 2021.

As Postdoctorate Research Associate you will:

undertake research at an internationally competitive level.
carry out the research programme described in the grant application
carefully plan the research activity making sure the milestones of the project are achieved within the expected timeframe
disseminate research results through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
To be successful in this role you will have/be:

a PhD in Biochemistry or related relevant discipline (completed or need completion/final stages of obtaining such a qualification by the end of May 2021)
experience in protein expression / purification
experience in handling E. coli
keen to learn new technical skills with regard to operation and use of scientific labware and instrumentation
The School of Biosciences is a vibrant, stimulating and welcoming environment for research and education within the Division of Natural Sciences. In REF2014, Bioscience at Kent was ranked 7th on the basis of ‘research intensity’, and the appointment of a range of new staff since 2014 has meant that research quantity and quality have risen still further. This is now an extremely active research environment.

The School of Biosciences is a welcoming and diverse environment that has been recognised with a Bronze Athena SWAN award. We are keen to enhance the balanced, inclusive, and diverse nature of the community within the School and would particularly encourage female candidates to apply for this post.

Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. If you require further information regarding the application process, please contact The Resourcing Team on jobs@kent.ac.uk quoting ref number: NATS-027-21