Research Assistant - #1773821

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Job Purpose

This ambitious project is funded for 5 years by an MRC Programme Grant and is focused on investigating how regulation of the mRNA translation machinery influences the initiation of hepatocellular carcinoma. We are looking to recruit a structural or cellular biologist to lead the ultrastructural arm of the project, using cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) combined with cryogenic correlated light and electron microscopy (cryo-CLEM) and cryo-focused ion beam (cryo-FIB) milling. This programme involves state-of-the-art imaging approaches to visualise molecular details of the relationships between mRNA translation and membrane trafficking machineries

The successful candidate will be trained in applying cryo-ET coupled with fluorescence to map key functional proteins and contribute to understanding how regulation of the mRNA translation machinery influences hepatocellular carcinoma initiation. The ideal candidate will have experience in molecular biology, cryo-EM sample preparation, processing of EM images, and be self-motivated in designing and executing cryo-ET experiments. The CVR has access to instrumentation at the Scottish Centre for Macromolecular Imaging (SCMI), including the JEOL CRYO ARM 300 electron microscope, Leica EM GP2, a cryo-FIB instrument with a Quorum transfer stage, and the Leica THUNDER Imager EM cryo-CLEM microscope. This technology will enable the candidate to develop skills to target events deep within cells, providing insights into molecular mechanisms through which mRNA translation rates affect Golgi transport, endocytosis, and endocytic sorting in hepatocytes

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Collaborate with colleagues and participate in team meetings, seminars, workshops with the Cancer Research UK-Scotland Institute, MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR), and the wider community

Plan and conduct research activities individually or jointly, aligning with project deliverables and research strategies

Document research findings, analyze and interpret data, maintain records, draft reports and publications

Enhance research profile and reputation of the CVR, contribute to high-quality publications, and increase research impact

Present work at international and national conferences, seminars, colloquia, and workshops

Identify potential funding sources and assist in developing proposals for future research funding

Supervise, mentor, and train undergraduate and postgraduate students and less experienced team members

Perform administrative tasks related to research activities, including budget management

Participate in teaching activities and related administration as assigned

Stay updated with current knowledge and advances in the field

Engage in professional development activities

Perform any other duties as required by the CVR Director and Principal Investigators

These tasks are not exhaustive but highlight major responsibilities expected from the staff member



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