Overview
The University of Leeds is seeking an ambitious and outstanding Research Fellow in Structural Biology (CryoEM) to join an interdisciplinary research team within the School of Molecular & Cellular Biology. Funded by BIRAX, this project investigates how proteins aggregate into amyloid fibrils and how fibrils with different structural characteristics perturb cellular function and induce neuronal dysfunction.
Key Job Details
| Designation | Research Fellow |
|---|---|
| Reference Number | FBSMB1323 |
| Faculty / School | Faculty of Biological Sciences / School of Molecular & Cellular Biology |
| Research Area | Structural Biology / Cryo-Electron Microscopy (CryoEM) / Amyloid Disease Mechanisms |
| Location | Leeds – Main Campus, UK |
| Salary | Grade 7 (£41,064 to £48,822 per annum) |
| Contract Type | Full Time, Fixed Term (18 months) |
| Closing Date | Wednesday 25 November 2026 |
Job Description
The successful applicant will work in the laboratories of Professors Sheena Radford and Neil Ranson, collaborating with Professor Raz Jelinek at Ben Gurion University. Primary duties and responsibilities include:
- Utilising cryo-electron microscopy (CryoEM), supported by complementary biochemical and biophysical analyses, to resolve structures of amyloid fibrils formed in vitro and purified from patient-derived samples.
- Determining the activity of distinct fibril types in driving neuronal dysfunction.
- Investigating how disease-relevant mutations and post-translational modifications impact amyloid aggregate formation and downstream cellular function.
- Collaborating closely with members of the amyloid research team and international partners.
- Communicating research findings through high-impact publications, presentations, and group meetings.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A PhD (or close to completion) in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related discipline.
- Extensive practical experience in utilizing CryoEM methods to address questions related to protein structure, macromolecular assembly, and biological mechanisms.
- Proven background in biochemical and biophysical techniques.
- Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills with a track record of collaborative research.
What We Offer
- Generous annual leave: 26 days holiday plus approximately 16 Bank Holidays and university closed days (42 days total per year).
- Generous pension scheme options and life assurance.
- Discounted staff membership to on-campus sports facilities (The Edge).
- Professional development and career progression opportunities.
- On-site childcare access, travel schemes, and shopping discounts.
Contact Information
For informal enquiries about the post, please contact:
- Professor Sheena Radford, Astbury Professor of Biophysics – Email: s.e.radford@leeds.ac.uk | Tel: +44 (0)113 343 3170
- Professor Neil A Ranson, Professor of Structural Molecular Biology – Email: n.a.ranson@leeds.ac.uk | Tel: +44 (0)113 343 7065
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the University of Leeds recruitment portal. Ensure you upload all requested documentation (cover letter, CV, and statements addressing the criteria).
Last Date for Apply: Wednesday 25 November 2026
Click Here to Apply Online at University of Leeds
