We are looking to recruit an enthusiastic post-doc with skills in recombinant DNA technology and protein expression skills.

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research fellow post at the School of Biosciences, University of Kent. This is a 4-year post, funded by the BBSRC, to work in the group of Professor Colin Robinson in the Centre for Molecular Processing. The aims of the research are to exploit the Tat protein export system for the production of recombinant therapeutic proteins in bacteria.

The Tat system is noted for its ability to export fully-folded proteins into the periplams, using a unique form of translocation mechanism. Heterologous proteins can be exported with high efficiency if a Tat signal peptide is attached, and this grant has been funded by a BBSRC/Innovate UK initiative to further develop this potential. The research will involve close collaboration with collaborators in University College London and a range of biotechnology companies. The project will involve engineering of E. coli strains and optimisation of protein export capacity, together with studies on the overall 'quality' of the exported protein.

The Project

The project is challenging, requiring the manipulation of DNA constructs for the bioengineering of the bacterial strains with high protein expression and export capacities, plus the skilful preparation of protein samples for detailed molecular analysis. The project requires a highly trained research associate with some prior experience of some aspects of the research area. The candidate should have experience in genetic engineering and protein expression; skills in protein purification would be an advantage. A key part of the project will be to collaborate with a range of industrial collaborators, so good networking skills are essential.

The Person

The successful applicant will have a PhD degree in molecular biology/Biochemistry or related discipline with experience in molecular biology and genetic engineering in bacteria.

You will have experience of summarising and presenting results with good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate technical information. Good technical lab skills are essential.

For full details of the role and the selection criteria please refer to the job specification attached.

The Department

The School of Biosciences is set in a beautiful campus overlooking the ancient city of Canterbury. Students, postgraduates and staff choose Biosciences at Kent for at least four reasons:

• Our reputation as one of the very best biology research and teaching institutes in the UK
• The friendly and supportive environment of the School
• The attractive city and surrounding countryside
• Our proximity to the Channel ports and tunnel and thence Continental Europe.

Research in the School is focused on molecular and cellular biosciences and spans both basic research and clinical applications. There are three principal areas of research activity:

• Protein science
• Biomedicine research group
• Cell and developmental biology

For further details, please visit: www.kent.ac.uk/bio