Research Assistant/Associate In Microbiology Or Biochemistry

Salary:Research Assistant: £31,396 to £32,982 per annumResearch Associate: £33,966 to £44,263 per annumNewcastle University is a great place to work, with excellent . We have a generous holiday package; plus the opportunity to buy more, great pension schemes and a number of health and wellbeing initiatives to support you.Closing Date: 23 June 2024The RoleWe are looking to appoint a talented and highly motivated Research Assistant/Associate with strong background in Microbiology and/or Biochemistry. You will work within the Faculty of Medical Sciences, Biosciences Institute, under the guidance of Prof. Bert van den Berg.The project is funded by the BBSRC and will focus on understanding the biogenesis of outer membrane (OM) protein complexes within the Bacteroidetes phylum. The Bacteroidetes are a large Gram-negative bacterial phylum that is widely distributed within the environment (soil, sea water) and in animal microbiomes, including that of the human gut. In contrast to model Proteobacteria such as E. coli, Bacteroidetes are characterised by having large numbers of OM protein complexes that consist of integral beta-barrel proteins and surface exposed OM lipoproteins. The project is based on our exciting recent discovery that the Bacteroidetes contain a distinct BAM (beta-barrel assembly machinery) complex that we hypothesise mediates the folding and assembly of OM protein complexes. Based on preliminary structural analysis, the Bacteroidetes BAM complex is very different from that of Proteobacteria and likely has evolved additional functions. Therefore, this project will add a completely new chapter to the book of OM biogenesis.This post is fixed term for a period of 36 months.To apply for the position, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining how you are suitable for the role, using examples to highlight how you meet the essential criteria in the knowledge, skills and experience as listed in the job description. Below are some of the key specific criteria:

• Proficient wet lab skills in molecular biology and protein biochemistry
• Experience in experimental structural biology, preferably cryo-electron microscopy
• Knowledge of membrane protein structure and function
• Knowledge of biomolecular visualisation software like ChimeraX and Pymol

Please note that if you are successful to this role, you will require medical clearance before you can commence in the role.For informal enquiries contact: Prof. Bert van den Berg, e-mail:Find out more about the Faculty of Medical Sciences here:Find out more about our Research Institutes here:As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of . These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.Key Accountabilities

• Although working under the general guidance of an academic or Principal Investigator, the postholder will contribute ideas, including enhancements to the technical or methodological aspects of their studies, thus providing substantial 'added value'
• Develop and carry out the specified project using appropriate techniques and equipment as outlined in the personal requirements
• Determine appropriate methodologies for research, with advice and support where required
• Contribute to grant applications submitted by others and in time develop own research objectives and proposals for funding
• Begin to write, with appropriate support, proposals for individual research funding or, where funders do not permit this, contribute to the writing of collective bids
• Assess research findings for the need/scope for further investigations
• Contribute to the writing up of their research for publication and dissemination, either through seminar and conference presentations or through publications
• Present research findings, either at conferences or through publications in reputable outlets appropriate to the discipline
• May be involved in the supervision, with guidance, of final year undergraduate research projects and in providing support to postgraduate research students or Research Assistants
• Will need to work with the support staff and, on occasions, with undergraduate and postgraduate students, and interact intellectually with other academic members of the Institute
• May contribute to events celebrating the public engagement of science/social sciences/humanities
• Develop an awareness of University structures, policies and procedures and relevant issues in the higher education, research, social and political environment

The PersonKnowledge, Skills and Experience

• Ability to work well as part of a team and rapidly acquire new skills
• Detailed subject knowledge (PI to describe subject knowledge required) in the area of research
• Likelihood of advanced skills directly related to the research projects
• High level of analytical and problem-solving capability
• Ability to communicate complex information with clarity and to encourage the commitment of others
• Experience of research with clear transferable skills and some experience or awareness of the research environment
• Presentations at conferences and/or high-quality publications
• Strong practical skills in molecular biology and protein biochemistry

Desirable

• Experience in experimental structural biology such as X-ray crystallography and/or cryo-electron microscopy
• Experience in membrane protein expression and purification
• Experience in culturing anaerobic bacteria
• Knowledge of outer membrane protein structure and function

Attributes and Behaviour

• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
• Good communication skills and interest in the work of others
• Perform tasks that benefit the team

Desirable

• Willingness to travel internationally (conferences)
• Commitment to personal development

Qualifications

• Good honours degree (or equivalent) with some subject knowledge in the relevant area (Research Assistant)
• A PhD in Microbiology or Biochemistry is required (Research Associate)

Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.At Newcastle University we hold a silver award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality. We also hold a Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC. We are a employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme.In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe.Requisition ID: 27165