Job description

Viruses employ various approaches to avoid host cell defence-mechanisms and coax host cells into virus particle production. During cellular influenza A infection, these include strategies to inhibit host gene transcription termination, so preventing messenger (m)RNA polyadenylation, -export and -translation. Although it is recognised that inhibition of host-gene mRNA expression aids the virus to promote expression of its own RNA (viral host shut off), not all circulating influenza strains are equally good at it, questioning its evolutionary importance.

We now seek a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join in our efforts to uncover the biological significance and mechanisms through which influenza A virus inhibits host gene transcription termination and mRNA expression. You will use a multidisciplinary approach that employs biochemistry, genetics, transcriptomics, molecular and cellular biology. You will be encouraged to use your own initiative and to work in collaboration with others to develop a comprehensive picture of how transcription termination affects RNA fate and consequently gene expression in influenza A infected cells.

The successful candidate will have obtained a PhD in a biological science such as molecular cell biology, virology or biochemistry. Experience with in vitro biochemistry, virology, molecular biology, transcriptomics or bioinformatics are desirable. The appointee will be expected to show critical, innovative, but also methodological thinking. We are looking for individuals with a sound approach to problem solving, enthusiasm to disseminate their own research in seminars, conferences, and research publications. Our laboratory is embedded in the highly collaborative department of infectious diseases. As a department we are trying to nurture and train postdocs to be prepared for the academic and non-academic job market.

This post will be offered on a fixed-term contract for 24 months, with a possibility to extend.

This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent. However, if suitable applicants are interested in 80 % posts, this can be discussed.

Key responsibilities

To perform and further develop a research project aiming to understand how host cells react to virally induced transcription termination inhibition in influenza A infected cells using transcriptomics, molecular biology and reverse viral genetics.

To work semi-independently to design and control experiments for above project.

To maintain accurate records of performed experiments and conclusions in line with the team s standards.

To prepare and deliver presentations about relevant research findings within the team and within and outside the department.

To interact with the team leader and other lab members, fostering a positive working environment.

To develop knowledge of the literature in the subject area.

Drafting publications arising from this work.

To handle equipment safely and considerate, report safety issues instantaneously and assist with general laboratory upkeep as shared by all members of the Team.

To comply at all times with

the requirements of the Health and Safety regulations.

Any other duties that may be required consistent with the nature and grade of the post.

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.

Skills, knowledge, and experience

**Essential criteria **

1. PhD awarded in biochemistry, molecular or cellular biology, mass spectrometry or protein biophysics, bioinformatics, virology, immunology or PhD in above subjects near completion.

2. Knowledge of some (or all) contemporary techniques of the following areas: cell biology, immunology, biochemistry (e.g., protein purification), transcriptomics and molecular biology.

3. Scientific integrity.

4. Proven ability to design, implement and analyse experiments

5. Excellent oral and written communication skills to communicate research findings at academic conferences.

6. Collegiate handling of general laboratory organizational tasks and good citizen within the department.

7. Strong publication record, as demonstrated by first author publication(s) in peer reviewed journals

8. Ability to self-motivate and work flexible hours

9. Ability to work co-operatively and collegially as a team member.

10. Basic Bioinformatic ability, sound computer and data-handling skills

Desirable criteria

1. Knowledge of transcription termination literature and/or influenza A literature

2. Training in RNA sequencing techniques, library preparation

3. Experience with mass spectrometry or protein cross-linking techniques.

4. Experience with designing CIRSPR

Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting award of their PhDs will be considered. In these circumstances the appointment will be made at Grade 5, spine point 30 with the title of Research Assistant. Upon confirmation of the award of the PhD, the job title will become Research Associate and the salary will increase to Grade 6.

Further information

Informal inquiries about this post can be addressed to Hannah.Mischo@kcl.ac.uk