We wish to recruit a postdoctoral Research Fellow within the Biomedical Sciences Research Complex of the University of St Andrews, to investigate the molecular basis of severe autoimmune diseases caused by infections with one of the most important human pathogens, Streptococcus pyogenes. This work is led by Uli Schwarz-Linek and is carried out in collaboration with groups from the University of Cambridge and the Helmholtz Center for Infection Research Braunschweig (Germany). You will use a combination of structural biology (NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, EPR spectroscopy) and biophysical studies (SPR, ITC) to elucidate the mechanism of collagen recognition by bacterial surface proteins.

You must have been (or soon will be) awarded a PhD in structural biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or another relevant discipline. You have a keen interest in molecular mechanisms of diseases. You should be proficient in standard molecular biology and recombinant protein production in E. coli. Experience with structural or biophysical techniques would be a strong advantage. This full-time post is funded for 8 months by the MRC. Start date: 01 November 2018 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Uli Schwarz-Linek (us6@st-andrews.ac.uk).

The University is committed to equality for all, demonstrated through our working on diversity awards (ECU Athena SWAN/Race Charters; Carer Positive; LGBT Charter; and Stonewall). More details can be found at http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/diversityawards/.

The University of St Andrews School of Biology is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all, which is further demonstrated through its working on the Gender Equality Charter and being awarded the Athena SWAN Silver award in 2018 for recognising advancement of gender equality representation, progression and success for all.

The School particularly welcomes applications from suitably qualified females. The School values equality and diversity across its workforce and offers a family friendly environment in which flexible working is encouraged; we strive to hold important meetings/seminars within core hours of 09.15 to 14.45. In addition, a broad variety of measures are currently being introduced to ensure effective career progression for everyone and to eradicate the historical underrepresentation of females at higher professional levels.

Biomedical Sciences Research Complex

Salary: £32,548 - £34,520 per annum, pro rata

Fixed Term: 8 months

Start: 1 November 2018 or as soon as possible thereafter