Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Genome Biologist

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join the group of Conrad Nieduszynski at the Earlham Institute, based in Norwich, UK. Background:  Single molecule analysis of Human DNA replication Complete, accurate genome replication is essential for life. Complete genome replication is achieved by initiating DNA replication at thousands of discrete sites. Both the characteristics of replication initiation sites and subsequent interruptions to replication have been implicated in human genetic and phenotypic variation (Saxena & Zou, 2022). The location and distribution of replication initiation sites across the human genome have been proposed to underlie genome instability and the biogenesis of tumorigenic translocations. This project will apply nanopore sequencing to identifies replication initiation sites across the human genome. In collaboration with the Kanemaki group (National Institute of Genetics, Japan) and Oxford Nanopore Technologies we will apply nanopore sequencing to characterise the dynamics of human genome replication on single molecules (Mülleret al., 2019). This will identify sites of DNA replication initiation and sequences that impede the replication fork. Induced protein degradation will be used to test factors involved in replication initiation and stable replication fork progression. Precise identification of sites of replication initiation and replication impediment is crucial since such sites have been implicated in the biogenesis of tumorigenic translocations.  Saxena & Zou (2022). Hallmarks of DNA replication stress. Mol Cell 82, 2298–2314. Müller et al. (2019). Capturing the dynamics of genome replication on individual ultra-long nanopore sequence reads. Nat. Methods,16:429.  The role:  This post requires a cell biologist / Genome Biologist with experience of high throughput sequencing with an interest in using their expertise to study fundamental biological processes and the causes of genome instability. The post-holder will be involved in mammalian cell culture, single molecule high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic analysis.  The ideal candidate:  We seek to appoint a well-trained, enthusiastic and self-motivated scientist with experience in applying high-throughput sequencing in scientific research. The post-holder should hold a PhD/DPhil in molecular biology, bioinformatics, genomics, genetics or equivalent.  Good organisational skills and the ability to communicate and work productively within a multidisciplinary team will be crucial. An interest in chromosome biology will be essential, but prior experience or knowledge of DNA replication or genome stability is not a requirement.  Additional information: Salary on appointment will be within the range £35,300 to £43,750 per annum depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time post for a contract of 36 months.  Interviews will be held on 21 March 2024.  To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter that details your interest and how you meet the job requirements.  For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our website via the 'Apply' button above or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004596. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply.  Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.  As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy.  The closing date for applications will be 7 March 2024.