Main Purpose of the Job

Carry out a range of biochemical experiments to elucidate the mechanism of action of a new type of gyrase inhibitors

Key Relationships

Internal: Line manager, group members and, as necessary, other researchers, research support staff and students across the Institute.

External: Collaborators

Main Activities & Responsibilities

Percentage

Plan, perform, trouble-shoot and analyse experiments as and when necessary, providing preliminary data

65

Continually strive for excellence, seeking out and acting on feedback and relevant learning and development opportunities

10

Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, Scientific Integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements

10

Assist in the preparation of research proposals and manuscripts, collaborating internally and externally as appropriate

5

Undertake routine administrative tasks, such as maintenance of laboratory supplies and stocks

5

Mentor/supervise less experienced researchers, encouraging scientific excellence and provide guidance and training on specialised items of equipment

5

As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, for example, contributing to the work of Institute committees

Education & Qualifications

Requirement

Importance

BSc or equivalent in biomedical science

Essential

PhD or equivalent in biomedical sciences

Desirable

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

Requirement

Importance

Protein & nucleic acid biochemistry

Essential

Protein purification (AKTA)

Essential

Molecular genetics (site-directed mutagenesis)

Essential

Interest in structural biology/cryo-EM

Essential

Relevant Experience

Requirement

Importance

Demonstrated ability to perform research

Essential

Proven record in scientific writing

Desirable

Provided technical training

Desirable

Supervision of students and visiting workers

Desirable

Experience of oral research presentations

Desirable

Preparing data / information for grant proposals

Desirable

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Requirement

Importance

Ability to prioritise to meet the demands of the group

Essential

Ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders

Essential

Ability to follow instructions/Standard Operating Procedures

Essential

Promotes and strives for continuous improvement

Essential

Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to present complex information with clarity

Desirable

Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a team

Desirable

Demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills

Desirable

Excellent time management and organisational skills

Desirable

Additional Requirements

Requirement

Importance

Attention to detail

Essential

Promotes equality and values diversity

Essential

Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work

Essential

Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute

Essential

Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate

Essential

Willingness to work outside standard working hours when required

Desirable

Ability to undertake occasional travel (national and international) related to collaborations and/or seminars

Desirable

John Innes Centre

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial genetics, carrying out fundamental and strategic research, to train scientists and making our findings available to society.

Our research makes use of a wide range of disciplines in the biological and chemical sciences including; cell biology, biochemistry, chemistry, genetics and molecular biology.

For more information about working at the John Innes Centre, please click here.

We pride ourselves on being a welcoming and inclusive working environment for all. We have a diverse and multicultural scientific community and thrive on our European and international links, appointing staff from across the world. Any candidate who would like further information on current or anticipated immigration requirements can contact the HR Team on +44 (0)1603 450888 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk.

We are proud to hold a prestigious Athena SWAN Gold award, recognising the impact of our work in promoting gender equality in science. We are also a proud member of the Stonewall Diversity Champion’s programme, a founding signatory of the Tecnician Commitment and, as a Disability Confident employer, guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852), limited by guarantee (registered in England No. 511709).

Department

Biochemistry and Metabolism

Researchers within the Department of Biochemistry and Metabolism investigate the structure and function of biological macromolecules and fundamental aspects of plant and microbial metabolism. They aim to understand the mechanisms underpinning metabolic diversity and how to manipulate proteins, carbohydrates, small molecules and DNA, research which is facilitating advances of agricultural, environmental, medical and industrial importance.

Group Details

Ghilarov group uses cryo-EM to study molecular aspects of antibiotic biosynthesis, function and resistance

Living in Norfolk

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Research Assistant
Salary:            £32,578 - £39,938 per annum depending on qualifications and experience.
Contract:        6 months, full-time
Location:        John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK.
Closing date: 25th May 2022
Reference:     1004266

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Assistant to join the Ghilarov Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science.

About the John Innes Centre:

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial genetics. We nurture a creative, curiosity-led approach to answering fundamental questions in bioscience, and translate that knowledge into societal benefits.

Our employees enjoy access to state-of-the-art technology and a diverse range of specialist training opportunities, including support for leadership and management. Click here to find out more about working at the John Innes Centre.

About the Ghilarov Group:

The Ghilarov group uses cryo-EM to study molecular aspects of antibiotic biosynthesis, function and resistance. Further information is available at http://ghilarovlab.com.

The role:

The main purpose of the role will be to carry out a range of biochemical experiments to elucidate the mechanism of action of a new type of gyrase inhibitors.

The Research Assistant will establish the mechanism of action of a novel topoisomerase inhibitor. The project involves biochemical activity assays and cryo-EM studies of Escherichia coli DNA gyrase.

We will provide training in biochemical assays involving DNA gyrase, protein purification and sample preparation for cryo-electron microscopy.

The ideal candidate:

You will have a BSc in biomedical science. You will have in-depth knowledge of protein & nucleic acid biochemistry, protein purification (AKTA), molecular genetics (site-directed mutagenesis) and an interest in structural biology/cryo-EM.

Additional information:

We welcome applications from candidates seeking job-share, part-time or other flexible working arrangements.

We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity.  As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.