Department: MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit
Salary: £35,308-£43,155
The University of Cambridge wishes to appoint a postdoctoral scientist to join Dr Julien Prudent’s research group in the MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit in Cambridge.
The postholder will work within a programme focussed on understanding mitochondrial dynamics and membrane contact sites as key regulators of cell fate decisions. Mitochondria form a dynamic and connected network, which is constantly remodelled by cycles of membrane fission and fusion. These dynamic transitions are not only required to ensure a proper mitochondrial function but also to respond to cellular needs and adapt to the metabolic state of the cell. To execute cellular functions, mitochondria also establish membrane contact sites with other organelles, including the endoplasmic reticulum, peroxisomes, trans-Golgi network vesicles and lysosomes. These organelle membrane contact sites are hotspots for metabolites flux and tightly regulate mitochondrial architecture. While defects in mitochondrial morphology or contact sites have been associated with human diseases, the molecular mechanisms linking mitochondrial membrane remodelling to cell fate decisions are not fully understood.
The goal of the project is i) to apply cutting-edge microscopy methods coupled to biochemical analysis to study the molecular mechanisms regulating mitochondrial morphology, ii) to apply this approach to investigate how mitochondria-organelle contact sites drive mitochondrial membrane remodelling and mtDNA dynamics, and iii) to elucidate the relevance of these events to the cell death and survival pathways, as well as to inflammation and to human disease.
Candidates will have (or be about to be awarded) a PhD in biological sciences, and a track record of related research achievements. Knowledge of organelle biology, membrane dynamics and experience of microscopy are essential.
The MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit is a world-renowned centre for research in respiratory enzymes. Additional information can be found at www.mrc-mbu.cam.ac.uk.
This is a fixed term training programme post for 3 years from date of appointment.
Click the ‘Apply’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online https://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/40939/
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
The closing date for applications is: 15th June 2023
The interview date for the role is: To be confirmed
Please quote reference SM36705 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
