Jobs in Structural Biology and Related Fields

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 protein crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, 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.

The LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both new 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

Overall purpose: 

To play a crucial role in supporting and training Electron Microscopy (EM) Facility users at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) while maintaining and operating state-of-the-art EM equipment.

Main duties/ Key responsibilities:

•    User Training: Provide hands-on training for high-throughput, high-quality data collection using single-particle analysis and cryo-electron tomography techniques, as well as guide users in utilising the cryo focused ion beam scanning electron microscope (FIB-SEM) system to mill lamellae for cryoEM imaging.
•    Equipment Maintenance and Operation: Contribute to maintain and operate a wide range of equipment, from sample preparation systems to Titan Krios microscopes, ensuring optimal performance.
•    Troubleshooting and Repairs: Diagnose and resolve hardware and software issues promptly, collaborating with service engineers for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades as needed.
•    Method Development: Implement, test, and develop new protocols and techniques for sample preparation, instrument operation, data collection, and image processing to enhance facility capabilities.
•    Continuous Learning: Stay current with advancements in cryoEM technology, actively expanding your skill set and integrating innovations into the Facility’s workflow.
•    Collaborative Research:  Contribute to collaborative projects across the cryoEM workflow, providing expertise and support to achieve research objectives.

Working relationships: 

You will report to Dr Shaoxia Chen, Head of the EM Facility, and will work in a team with service engineers and other EM Research Support Officers. The Facility is overseen by a Group Leader, currently Dr Andrew Carter. The post-holder will liaise with other Group Leaders, research support staff, post-doctoral scientists and students across the LMB and with external collaborators. Use of the Facility is driven by academic demand.

Education / qualifications / training required: 

Essential: 
•    PhD in biology, engineering, physics, materials sciences or equivalent level of experience or training in a relevant subject.

Previous work experience required: 

Essential:
•    Experience in operating transmission electron microscopes.
•    Experiences in cryoEM sample preparation, data collection and image processing.
•    Experience in user training and support.

Desirable:
•    Experience in the maintenance, repair and management of electron microscopes.
•    Experience in operating focused ion beam or equivalent tools.

Knowledge and experience: 

Technical skills

Essential:
•    Excellent knowledge of cryo electron microscopy techniques, such as single particle analysis and/or cryo-electron tomography.
•    Excellent knowledge of electron microscopy including an understanding of image formation theory, detectors and vacuum systems.
•    Knowledge and practical skills with computers, linux operating systems, bash scripting and simple programming in Python.

Desirable:
•    Excellent knowledge of precision scientific or technical instrumentation.

Creativity and initiative

Desirable:
•    Experience in the development of new protocols or new methodologies in technical fields.  

Independent working

Essential:
•    Motivation and willingness to learn, develop, and test new methods, techniques, tools, and technologies.
•    A pro-active and conscientious attitude to work and a service-oriented attitude are essential.

Verbal and written communication skills

Essential:
•    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and ability to work closely and collaboratively with colleagues and users.
•    The ability to communicate at different levels of technical complexity with both novice and advanced users, as well as experts including service engineers.
•    Experience in writing protocols or help-sheets. 

Personal skills / behaviors / qualities: 

Essential: 
•    Excellent standards of professional conduct.
•    Strong skills and experience in working collaboratively as a member of a team.
•    Ability to organise worktime efficiently and to prioritise a demanding workload under pressure.

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.