Postdoctoral Scientist

To work within the group of Dr Michael Hastings at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme aimed at identifying the molecular and neural basis of tidal (and other non-circadian) biological clocks. Specifically, to undertake research to investigate the basis of circatidal behaviour and metabolism in the marine isopod Eurydice pulchra.

Circadian (24 hour) body clocks are conserved amongst terrestrial organisms, and their molecular architecture is well known. A greater diversity and abundance of life, however, inhabits environments varying over tidal/lunar time. Absolutely nothing is known of the molecular neurobiology of tidal clocks: this rich neurobiological problem is virgin territory. The project will utilise next generation RNA-sequencing, genomic analyses, homology cloning, behavioural analyses, protein expression and neurobiological examination and manipulation of the Eurydice nervous system to characterise the molecular genetics and neural circuits behind this elusive clock. The Applicant will be well supported by the extensive resources and expertise of LMB, with close collaboration with the group in the Cell Biology Division led by Dr. John O’Neill. It will also benefit from external collaborations with expertise in marine biology and Drosophila neurogenetics.

Candidates should be expert in transcriptome bioinformatics and molecular genetics, including RNA extraction, PCR, DNA cloning, genomic sequence analysis and molecular neuroanatomy etc. Expertise in protein biochemistry, immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridisation alongside a general interest in neurobiology are highly desirable. We shall identify tidally regulated genes, define their regulatory genomic elements and then determine the functions of their encoded proteins in cell culture and in vivo. Is the tidal clock a shorter cycle equivalent of the well-known circadian feedback loop, or is it something more exotic? How does its architecture compare with other non-circadian oscillators?

Main duties:

• To undertake research aimed at identifying the molecular-genetic, cellular and neural bases of circatidal clocks.
• To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
• To present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
• To contribute to laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field.
• To draft scientific papers, and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.
• To contribute to the LMB’s mission in the public engagement of science, and the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.
• To assist in the training of PhD students and other members of the LMB.

Key responsibilities:

Within the overall direction of the programme, the group, the remit of the project and in discussion with the Group Leader, you will make a significant input into determining the direction of the project within a 3-year lifespan.

To plan your own work and objectives on a 12-month basis and manage your experimental work within the project along with your Supervisor.

To work with limited supervision to identify, develop, modify and apply the necessary techniques to achieve the goals of the project.

To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods where required.

To ensure the research is carried out in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.

To contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, training of others and taking responsibility for use of communal facilities.

To enhance your research and generic skills through a tailored development programme.

Working relationships:

You will report to Dr Michael Hastings and will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support staff and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external groups as necessary.

Additional information:

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 and the MRC.

Academic qualifications:

These should include a PhD in a relevant subject.

Technical skills and expertise:

Essential
Experience of and ability to perform techniques relevant to the project. Particularly useful would be experience of:

Bioinformatic analysis of transcriptomic sequencing data.

Bioinformatic analysis of genomic sequence data.

General molecular biological techniques (RNA, DNA extraction, sub-cloning, protein expression and analysis etc.).

Expertise in neuroanatomical procedures, including immunocytochemistry, confocal microscopy and/ or in situ hybridisation.

Desirable
Familiarity with invertebrate neurobiology.

Experience of genetic manipulation of invertebrates (e.g., by microinjection, RNA interference/ knock-down).

Transcriptional reporter assays and cell culture.

De novo genome assembly.

Track record of research:

This will include achievements, and contributions to published papers.

Other relevant evidence of:

• Commitment.
• Originality.
• Ability to communicate.
• Working with others.