Research Fellow in Structural Biology

Overview

This postdoctoral research fellow position is based on the university campus, with flexible working arrangements available. The role centres on investigating protein structures in the human brain using fluorescence-guided cryoET as part of the 8‑year Wellcome Discovery Award, "Seeing inside the human brain." The project involves coordinating three PDRAs, a research coordinator, two research technicians and a PhD student across Leeds, London and Amsterdam to decipher the pathological mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease.

Work with an integrated team of structural biologists, pathologists and neurologists to employ correlative imaging and cryoET techniques, building on recent breakthroughs in determining structures within tissues cryoET (Gilbert et al., Nature, 2024). Contribute to experimental design, data acquisition, image analysis and interpretation to investigate the structural basis of amyloid assembly, spread and toxicity in Alzheimer's disease.

PhD in Structural Biology (cryoEM/ET) or close to completion; strong background in cryoEM/ET; ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary, international research environment.

• 26 days holiday plus approximately 16 bank holidays/University closed days (including Christmas) – 42 days a year
• Generous pension scheme plus life assurance – University contributes 14.5% of salary
• Health and wellbeing: discounted staff membership at the Edge campus gym, pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit and sports halls
• Personal development: access to courses run by the Organisational Development & Professional Learning team
• On‑site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available

The University of Leeds and the Faculty of Biological Sciences are committed to providing equal opportunities for all and offer a range of family‑friendly policies. The Faculty is a charter member of Athena SWAN and was re‑awarded a Silver award in 2025. Job share applications and requests for flexible working arrangements are welcomed.