Download Job description and person specification

Job description and person specification
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Summary details
Unit name:
Division/Section:
Job title
*Salary range:
*Band (Grade):
*Contract type (e.g. Open/Fixed term):
*Hours (e.g. full or part time):
Detailed job description
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
Structural Studies
Career Development Fellow
£26,022 - £27,623 per annum
Band 4
Fixed-term for 3 years
Full-time, 36 hours per week
Overall purpose:
To work within a programme aimed at structural and biochemical analysis of bacterial DNA
replication and DNA repair. Specifically to use single molecule microscopy techniques to unravel
the sequential events in DNA replication and translesion DNA synthesis.
Main duties / key responsibilities:
Main duties
 To undertake research aimed at setting up single molecule microscopy studies on bacterial DNA
replication and DNA repair.
 To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives
 To present scientific work at seminars within the Laboratory and at external meetings
 To contribute to lab-wide discussions on developments within the field
 To draft scientific papers, and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication
 To contribute to the LMB’s mission in the public engagement of science, and the translation of
research findings into improvements in health care
 To assist in the training of PhD students and other members of the LMB
CDF Job description & person specification
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Key Responsibilities
Within the overall direction of the programme of the group and the remit of the project, and in
discussion with the group leader, the post holder will make a significant input into determining the
direction of the project with a 3 year lifespan.
To plan their own work and objectives on a 12 month basis and will manage their experimental
work within the project along with their supervisor.
To work with limited supervision to identify, develop, modify and apply the necessary techniques to
achieve the goals of the project.
To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines, and to have the creativity
and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods where required.
To ensure the research is carried in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local
polices and legal requirements.
To contribute to the smooth running of the research group, including the effective use of resources,
training of others and taking responsibility for use of communal facilities.
To enhance their research and generic skills through a tailored development programme.
To identify new equipment which will assist the group programme and to present argued cases for
new purchases.
Working relationships:
The postholder will report to Dr Meindert H. Lamers and will interact and collaborate with other
postdoctoral scientists, research support staff and students in the Group and across the LMB, and
with external Groups as necessary.
Additional information:
This is a three-year training and development position for a post-doctoral scientist who has recently
completed their doctoral studies, is moving into a new research discipline or has limited experience
of key transferable skills. We support CDFs with a range of formal and on-the-job training,
including:



MRC training courses
External training and personal development courses
One-to-one training with their supervisor and other scientists
As an MRC CDF the post holder will commit to undertaking the following:
 Developing and following a personal development plan
 Attending training courses
 Identifying additional training which will support them to develop their career.
CDF Job description and person specification
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Equality & Diversity
The MRC values the diverse skills and experience of its employees and is committed to
achieving equality of treatment for all. Our objectives are that all individuals shall have equal
opportunities for employment and advancement on the basis of their skills, aptitudes and
abilities. The MRC is committed to the engagement and retention of the best possible talent
and to creating an environment that encourages excellence in scientific research through good
equalities and diversity leadership and management.
Corporate/Local responsibilities & requirements
The job holder must at all times carry out their responsibilities with due regard to the MRC’s:
 Code of Conduct
 Equality and Diversity policy
 Health and Safety policy
 Data Protection and Security policy
Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal.
changes should be made and agreed between the post holder and their manager.
Any
The above lists are not exhaustive and the job holder is required to undertake such duties as
may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act
professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post and the
MRC.
Person requirements
Education / Qualifications / Training required:
Essential:
PhD in a biological subject or due to complete doctoral studies within 6 months of applying (in
a biological subject).
Desirable:
PhD in structural biology and/or DNA replication-repair and/or single molecule microscopy.
Previous work experience required:
Essential:
Worked in an environment of high scientific standard.
Desirable:
Experience in single molecule microscopy, structural biology, protein characterization and
molecular biology.
Knowledge and experience:
Independent working
Essential:
Is able to independently find creative solutions for difficult problems.
Desirable:
Ability to carry out experimental programme including design, analysis and write-up.
Verbal and written communication skills
Essential:
First author publication in peer-reviewed journal that contributed to new insights into their field
of research.
CDF Job description and person specification
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Is able to present clearly and discuss his/her own work
Desirable:
Additional publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Interaction/Collaborations/ Influencing Skills
Essential:
Is open to advice or criticism from peers and supervisor.
Able to work in a team and have a positive influence on other members in the lab.
Personal skills/behaviours/qualities:
Essential:
Enthusiastic individual with a strong interest in biological/medical problems.
Desirable:
Keen interest in searching for new areas of research (visionary).
Additional information:
CDF Job description and person specification
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