Postdoctoral Fellow

Postdoctoral Fellow – Chromosome Segregation Laboratory

Reporting to: F Uhlmann

Contact term: This is a full-time, four-year position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

The Research Group

In the Chromosome Segregation Laboratory, we investigate molecular mechanisms that underpin faithful chromosome segregation during cell division. We use yeast and other eukaryotic model systems to study the contribution of structural chromosomal proteins to sister chromatid cohesion and chromosome condensation, essential processes that ensure faithful segregation of centimetre-long chromosomal DNA molecules within micrometre-sized cells. We also investigate how kinases and phosphatases of the cell cycle control network orchestrate the ordered progression through the successive stages of genome duplication and chromosome segregation. We have reached a stage where many of the key chromosome and cell cycle players have been identified, and our focus now turns to unravelling the fascinating mechanisms by which these molecular machines accomplish their tasks.

Further information about us and our research can be found at https://www.crick.ac.uk/research/labs/frank-uhlmann. Research techniques used in the laboratory include but are not limited to molecular biology, genomics, biochemistry, structural biology, and biophysics.

The Project

The purpose of this role is to advance our molecular understanding how members of the Structural Maintenance of Chromosome (SMC) family of protein complexes, cohesin and condensin, work as small molecular machines that give chromosomes their shape. In this project, some of the specific aims include but are not limited to coming to a comparative quantitative understanding of how cohesin and condensin perform their respective functions. We are interested in exploring these SMC complexes at all levels. From studying their single molecular behaviour and their biochemical properties we aspire to gain insight into how cohesin and condensin perform their in vivo roles in chromosome architecture and function. We have recently begun to broaden the range of experimental systems that we use to investigate SMC complex function.

Postdoctoral Fellows will lead their own projects, contribute to other projects on a collaborative basis, both within the laboratory, as well as with internal and external collaborators, and they may guide undergraduate or PhD students in their research. The ability to work in a team is essential.

Key experience and competencies

The post holder should embody and demonstrate our Crick core values: Bold ; Open ; Collegial

Essential

• PhD in molecular cell biology, biochemistry or biophysics, or in the final stages of PhD submission

• Good knowledge of and experience in an area of chromosome biology

• Technical expertise in protein purification and analysis

• Track record of writing papers as evidenced by publications or submitted manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals

• Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings

Desirable

• Experience in research with a model biological system

• Experience in quantitative biochemistry and biophysics

• Experience with advanced microscopic techniques

About Us

At the Crick, we conduct research at the forefront of biomedical research. We combine rigour with an open and collaborative culture, and are outward-looking, reflecting our status as a partnership of six organisations aiming to pool knowledge, ideas and resources.

We have a wide research portfolio with no divisions or departments, bringing biomedical researchers together with clinicians, physical scientists and applied scientists from our pharmaceutical partners.

We aim to attract the most talented researchers and support them to tackle innovative research questions. Our science technology platforms provide our researchers with access to state-of-the-art technology and expertise.

We provide an excellent learning environment with dedicated education programmes in public engagement with science, education and personal development, and a postdoc training programme that prepares scientists for leadership roles in science.

• If you are interested in applying for this role, please apply via our website.

• The closing date for applications is 31 January 2025.

• All offers of employment are subject to successful security screening and continuous eligibility to work in the United Kingdom.

• If you require a visa to work in the UK, we will help support your application should you be selected.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The Francis Crick Institute welcomes applications from all backgrounds. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and recognise the positive value of diversity.

We particularly welcome applications from people who are ethnic minorities/minority ethnic as they are currently underrepresented at the Crick.

Read more on our website: https://www.crick.ac.uk/careers-and-study/life-at-the-crick/equality-diversity-and-inclusion

Find out what benefits the Crick has to offer:

For more information on our great pay and benefits package please click here: https://www.crick.ac.uk/careers-and-study/life-at-the-crick/pay-and-benefits