Fixed term, 3 years

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK 

To work in the group of Dr Michel Goedert from the Neurobiology Division of the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) to develop methods for forming amyloid filaments of alpha-synuclein with structures identical to those from human brains. This work will be done in close collaboration with the group of Dr Sjors Scheres from the Structural Studies Division of the LMB. 

The assembly of alpha-synuclein into abnormal amyloid filaments is central to Parkinson’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies and multiple system atrophy. Since 2020, we have used electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) to show that specific alpha-synuclein filament folds define these diseases. Non-proteinaceous densities of unknown composition are also present. To understand mechanisms of disease, one must be able to form filaments in experimental settings that have the same structures as those from human brains. This may require the addition of cofactors of known identity. 

One successful candidate will use immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry to identify the chemical identity of cofactors. The second successful candidate will develop methods for making alpha-synuclein folds like those from human brains and use cryo-EM to analyse these folds. A PhD in a relevant subject (or completion within 6 months), good communication skills and the ability to work well both independently and in a group are crucial. 

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 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, a holiday entitlement of 40.5 days per annum (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. Further information about the benefits available can be found at http://www.discover.ukri.org/benefits-of-working-at-ukri. 

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 MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology. 

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit our job board via the 'Apply' button above

If you are unable to apply online, please contact us at recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk. 

Closing date: 31 May 2026 

Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening. 

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion. We therefore, particularly welcome 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.