Research Fellow in Cell Biology

Studies performed in the recently established Chromosome Biology Lab concentrate on mechanisms underlying proper chromosome segregation. We investigate molecular basis of the mitotic apparatus organisation with the emphasis on the multiprotein kinetochore complexes. Specifically, we are interested in (1) structure-function relationship between the major components of the kinetochore and (2) regulatory mechanisms that govern kinetochore activities and therefore control chromosome segregation in eukaryotic cells. This new Wellcome Trust-funded project belongs to that second area of research.

The successful applicant is going to study the role that protein phosphatases play in human cells with the main focus on mitosis. This project stems from the observation that some protein phosphatases localise specifically to kinetochores during cell division and that their depletion adversely affects progression of mitosis. This suggests that protein (de)phosphorylation is involved in the regulation of key kinetochore components. We would like to gain some insight into how these processes work at the molecular level. The proposed methodology involves cell culture, RNAi, cell staining and immunofluorescence, time-lapse imaging, cell synchronisation, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and protein purification followed by mass spectrometry. Other general molecular cell biology techniques will be also employed during the project. 

We strongly encourage all interested candidates to apply. The selected person will play a key role in the project. It is expected that the high quality results generated by the Research Fellow will form a base for high impact publication(s) and lead into novel, original research directions and new grant proposals. It is a collaborative project that will involve working with the members of local groups, as well as Imaging and Proteomics facilities that are well equipped and staffed by a highly-skilled personnel, ready to contribute to the study.

The University of Southampton is a research-oriented institution committed to support and further develop its research base in order to become the world leader. Chromosome Biology Lab, led by Dr Marcin Przewloka, is affiliated with Biological Sciences and located in the purpose-designed Life Sciences Building at the Highfield Campus. Highly stimulating research environment and a friendly atmosphere create a perfect place to develop the project. All facilities and resources necessary for the project are on site, however the lab has strong links to the collaborators in the UK and abroad, hence a requirement for the candidate to be able to travel occasionally to work with external groups. It is also expected that the Research Fellow will participate in national and international meetings and workshops to communicate new findings and stay connected with other research teams active in the fields of mitosis, cell cycle, phospho-regulation and chromosome biology.

Applications will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon completion of PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

For any informal queries, please feel free to contact Dr Marcin Przewloka at marcin.przewloka@soton.ac.uk.

Application Procedure

Please apply via the apply online button below.  The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. If you need any assistance, please call Elsa Samwell (Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 2507. Please quote reference 969118BJ on all correspondence.

 

We aim to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community.