Investigator Scientist | Cell Biology | Mass Spectrometry | LMB 3032

£44,801 to £47,071 per annum

Overall purpose:

The Biological Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) seeks an investigator scientist to provide quantitative proteomics services across a broad range of research projects in cell and molecular biology. The successful candidate will work as part of a dynamic and collaborative team of facility staff and with research groups in the LMB. They will execute quantitative proteomics workflows and maintain the associated cutting-edge mass spectrometers. These will include high throughput labelled and label free proteomics, phosphoproteomics, and analysis of protein interactions using hydrogen/deuterium exchange and crosslinking mass spectrometry. They will perform data analysis of the results and communicate the findings to users of the Facility. They will provide training to users in sample preparation for quantitative proteomics where appropriate.

Main duties:

• Prepare samples for quantitative proteomics and structural proteomics pipelines
• Ensure optimal operation and quality control of mass spectrometers and associated instruments
• Communicate with Facility users and where appropriate, provide advice on experimental strategy
• Coordinate with the Facility Head to adjust workflows and facility operations where appropriate
• Coordinate with the Facility bioinformatician to provide data analysis of projects
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously and provide progress updates to users and Facility Head
• Keep up to date with developments in the field
• Contribute to research publications through data analysis and production of relevant figures
• Train students, postdoctoral scientists and others where appropriate in sample preparation
• Present work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings

Key responsibilities:

The key responsibility is to undertake proteomic analysis of cutting edge research, aimed at key questions within the remit of the different research groups that use the Biological Mass Spectrometry Facility within the LMB.  You will be expected to provide the intellectual energy and independent thinking necessary to deliver the data.

To prepare samples and analyse them in the various mass spectrometry pipelines available in the facility.

You will be expected to have the skill and understanding to be able to act independently in solving problems, many of which may require novel approaches.  This may require the integration of different mass spectrometry pipelines to ensure the successful delivery of results to the facility users.

To interact effectively with the other facility staff and users (students, postdoc and others). This could include training others in the appropriate sample preparation methods (as needed).

To maintain accurate records of sample preparation workflows and mass spectrometry analysis for each project, in line with the facility SOPs.

To assist with the writing of scientific papers and grant applications when appropriate.

To ensure that research is conducted in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.

To have a broad, balanced and informed perspective of current scientific developments especially those pertaining directly to the area of mass spectrometry driven proteomics.

To agree the overall strategic direction of the Biological Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility.

To perform MS data search in the available search engines and liaise with the facility bioinformatician whenever customised statistical tests and data interpretation are more appropriate.

Working relationships:

You will report to the Head of the Mass Spectrometry Facility and will liaise with other Research Support staff, Postdoctoral Scientists and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external collaborators.

Person requirements

Academic qualifications and experience:

PhD in a relevant biological subject (Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry or a related field) and a track record of academic and professional achievement.

Postdoctoral experience in a mass spectrometry facility in academia or industry with focus on proteomics/structural proteomics sample analysis.

Experience with sample preparation in the context of shared scientific facilities (mass spectrometry) with a broad range of biological subjects.

Proven experience in delivering mass spectrometry/proteomics projects.

Technical skills and expertise:

Essential criteria:

• Significant experience with labelled (i.e., TMT; SILAC) and label free sample preparation workflows.
• Significant experience in handing all aspects of data acquisition using mass spectrometry (mass spectrometer/HPLC maintenance and troubleshooting, evaluation of quality control standards, method optimization)
• Significant experience in a wide range of mass spectrometers and types of mass analysers.
• Significant experience in quantitative analysis of protein post-translational modifications (i.e., phosphorylation; ubiquitination)
• Experience in analysing mass spectrometry quantitative proteomic datasets - labelled (TMT and SILAC) and label free datasets.
• Experience in maintaining a reproducible record of the analysis performed in each project.
• In-depth knowledge of proteomics techniques, workflows, combined with natural curiosity and ability to ramp up quickly in new areas.
• Strong self-initiative and determination with a bias for action, enthusiasm for taking on new projects and operating independently in a fast-paced growth environment.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and determine priorities.
• Excellent organizational, time management and communication skills and the ability to work effectively and independently in an interdisciplinary, team-oriented, collaborative, high-performance environment.

Desirable criteria:

• Significant experience in targeted protein quantification workflows.
• Experience in studying protein dynamics using hydrogen/deuterium exchange.
• Experience in crosslinking mass spectrometry analysis.

Track record of research:

This will include discoveries and significant achievements, and a track record of communicating research at national and international conferences.

Other relevant evidence of:

• Science communication
• Originality
• Communication skills
• Commitment

Corporate/Local responsibilities & requirements

You must at all times carry out your responsibilities with due regard to the UKRI: 
• Code of Conduct
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
• Health and Safety policy
• Data Protection policy

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal.  Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post.  All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI.  

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.

 

UKRI - UK Research and Innovation

UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation.

Supporting some of the world’s most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.

More information can be found at www.ukri.org.

Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme.  For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI.

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At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community. For further information, please visit ‘How we support EDI in the workforce’.

Disability Confident Employer

As users of the disability confident scheme, any candidate who opts into the scheme and best meets the essential criteria, will be shortlisted for interview. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

How to apply

Online applications only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered.

UKRI seeks to ensure it creates and maintains a system of openness, fairness and inclusion – a collaborative, trusted environment, which is attractive to and accessible to everyone who is interested in developing their career with us.

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be rejected and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action.

As part of the pre-employment checks there is a requirement to undergo Baseline Personnel Security Screening. BPSS is a pre-condition of employment and failure to achieve it may mean that the employment offer is rescinded. UKRI reserves the right to run, or re-run, security clearance as required during the course of employment.

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably X-ray crystallography of proteins, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies. 

The LMB has a clear goal of understanding biological processes at the molecular level, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease. We aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years.

There are four scientific Divisions - Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology. However, scientific collaboration between the different Divisions is extensive. Scientists are well supported by excellent scientific facilities and by the LMB Operations Group which maintains the core infrastructure and services of the institute.

Our state-of-the-art laboratory provides an unsurpassed environment for both young and established researchers. Scientists are drawn to the LMB from all over the world, thus creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and technical innovation.

The LMB is a great place to work and progress your career, be it in scientific research or the support functions. The LMB is a unique working environment where our researchers are rewarded by world class innovation and collaboration opportunities that the LMB name brings. The LMB is an excellent place to develop yourself further and a range of training & development opportunities will be available to you, including professional registration with the Science Council.

Choosing to come to work at the LMB (part of UKRI) means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme and excellent holiday entitlement to access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme, as well as the chance to put the LMB and UKRI on your CV in the future.

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society irrespective of gender, race, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, disability or age. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require; recruit@mrclmb.ac.uk.

UKRI supports research in areas that include animal health, agriculture and food security, and bioscience for health which includes research on animals, genetic modification and stem cell research. Whilst you may not have direct involvement in this type of research, you should consider whether this conflicts with your personal values or beliefs.