Postdoctoral Scientist
Salary £41,344 per annum pro rata
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
We are recruiting a postdoctoral scientist to join a collaboration working on understanding how protocells could have emerged during the origin of life. More specifically, work in the LMB as part of this collaboration will focus on potential chemistry to activate nucleotides and amino acids for RNA replication and RNA-directed peptide synthesis in compartmentalized aqueous chemical systems under geochemically plausible conditions.
Candidates should have a PhD in organic or bioorganic chemistry or be due to complete within 6 months, an interest in the origin of life and, preferably, experience of nucleic acid and/or peptide chemistry.
This is a three-year training and development position suitable for you if you have recently completed your doctoral studies, or you are looking to move into a new research discipline and/or need to further develop your research skills. Working with our world class scientists you will be working in an Institute renowned for its excellent scientific facilities and high-quality research.
The LMB has a collaborative working culture and state-of-the-art building based on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have on-site parking, cycle enclosures and excellent public transport links to the site. We have a staff restaurant with roof terrace and access to a Campus nursery and sports and social facilities. You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme with an employer contribution of 16%, holiday entitlement of 40.5 days (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing training and development opportunities including support towards role-related qualifications.
The LMB is a world-class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is nine research councils, working together across all disciplines and sectors. More information can be found at www.ukri.org and www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.
Closing date: 09/04/2025
Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening.
We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes women, minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require; recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk