Postdoctoral Research Assistant - UOD2290

The MRC PPU is one of the world's most renowned centers for research on protein phosphorylation and ubiquitylation (http://www.ppu.mrc.ac.uk/). Many world-leading researchers in the field of signal transduction have trained within the MRC PPU. The major aims of the MRC PPU are to advance understanding of the role of protein phosphorylation and ubiquitylation in cell regulation and human disease, to facilitate the development of drugs to treat diseases caused by abnormalities in phosphorylation, to generate reagents and improve technologies. A key remit of the MRC PPU is to train the next generation of scientists who will advance our understanding in this crucial area of medical research.

We are recruiting for a driven individual to join us as a postdoctoral research assistant within the Dario Alessi lab, to study the molecular mechanisms of LRRK2 activation in health and disease. This project will use novel animal- and cellular models to robustly define key steps of LRRK2 membrane recruitment and kinase activation. This is a fixed-term appointment for 1 year with September 2026 as the start date. We strongly encourage early career researchers to apply for this role.

Why Join Us?

• Work in a globally recognised research environment
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure
• Opportunities for career development, structured mentorship, and international collaboration
• Work in an environment that values openness, scientific rigour, and mutual support
• Benefit from a strong track record of mentoring postdoctoral researchers towards independent careers

Your priorities will include:

• Investigate basal and pathogenic mechanisms of LRRK2 kinase activity modulation across molecular-, cellular-, and organismal organization levels.
• Project development and implementation, including experimental design; identification and development of a broad range of techniques necessary to achieve the research.
• Working collaboratively and assisting with the training of PhD students and other lab members.
• Presenting scientific work at internal and external meetings.
• Contributing to the preparation of research for publication.

Who we're looking for:

• Have obtained a PhD (or near completion) in a relevant discipline with outstanding academic track record with relevance to neuroscience.
• Have extensive knowledge of and experience in cell biology and biochemistry as well as excellent displayable laboratory skills in all the following techniques: Western blot, PCR, primary cell culture, genetic manipulation, and mass spectrometry.
• Have expertise in the design and execution of laboratory animal studies (mice), including tissues collection and processing, proven through prior track record.
• Have a strong ability to work independently but with excellent ability to work in a team, and an open and collaborative approach to science.
• Have excellent communication skills and knowledge of the English language are essential.

We are one of the UK's leading universities, internationally recognised for our expertise across a range of disciplines and research breakthroughs in multiple areas, including science, medicine and engineering, amongst many others. Our purpose is to transform lives, locally and globally, which we do as a community of staff (Professional Services and academic Faculty), students and alumni. Professional Services directorates are key to delivering the University strategy and driving change across the University.

For informal enquiries about this position please contact Dario Alessi at [email protected]. To find out more about MRC PPU please visit https://www.ppu.mrc.ac.uk/