Job description and person specification

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Summary details
Unit name: / MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit
Division/Section: / Mitochondrial Medicine
Job title / Investigator Scientist
*Salary range: / £27,355 - £32,648 (rising to £38,163) per annum
*Band (Grade): / Band 4
*Contract type (e.g. Open/Fixed term): / Open
*Hours (e.g. full or part time): / Full-time, 36 hours per week
Detailed job description
Overall purpose:
To lead one or more projects within an overall programme on the characterisation of the biogenesis of respiratory chain complexes, in particular complex II, III and IV. This work will mainly be centred on the identification of assembly factors of these complexes, in a collaborative frame elaborated in the 2015-2020 QQR programme of the MBU, which includes the Mitochondrial Medicine group (GL Massimo Zeviani) and the Mitochondrial Complex I group (GL Judy Hirst). This work is relevant for both shedding light on a fundamental question of mitochondrial biology, i.e. how the respiratory chain complexes are formed and interact together, as well as mitochondrial medicine, since a remarkable number of disease genes have been found to encode chaperones and other categories of proteins involved in the biogenesis of individual respiratory chain complexes. This work will encompass a rather wide area of activities, from the validation of putative assembly factors identified as disease gene products in mitochondrial encephalomyopathies, to the identification of new such proteins by mass spectrometry based strategies, to eventually modelling their mechanistic function in normal and disease conditions in in vivo models (e.g. yeast, zebrafish or mouse).
To play a major role in the work of the research group, through the conduct of research, introduction of new ideas, dissemination of research results, support and training of others.
To be a focus of expertise on biochemistry, cell biology and molecular biology applied to nucleus-encoded or mtDNA-encoded genes related to the respiratory chain structure and formation. To have a focussed expertise in mass spectrometry analysis, including SILAC and complexomic technology. To have also an expertise on confocal microscopy applied to mitochondrial localisation of proteins, mitochondrial dynamics and mitochondrial transport in highly structured cells, e.g. neurons.
To manage the Unit’s microscopy facility, providing expertise, training, and monitoring equipment and supplies.
Main duties / key responsibilities:
Main duties
Provide basic and more advanced training to new users of the facility in how to use the Unit's range of advanced light microscopes (currently Zeiss Z1 Observer with Apotome, Zeiss LSM880 confocal, Nikon A1-M confocal with N-SIM, Zeiss PALM LCM), and associated SOP's and procedures
Provide experimental advice about microscopy techniques, troubleshooting, and assisting in the development of new experimental techniques and approaches
Under the general leadership of the Group Leader, to be responsible for all aspects of the research projects, including defining the direction of the work, conducting the research, analysing the data, preparing the work for publication and disseminating the results at meetings.
To present their work at seminars within the Unit and at external meetings.
To contribute to lab-wide discussions on developments within the laboratory, particularly in the use of new techniques or new equipment.
To identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives.
To keep up to date with developments in the field, proposing or implementing changes of direction as necessary.
To prepare the research for publication.
To work in collaboration with others to achieve joint research projects.
To train students, post docs and others, and line management of group members where appropriate.
To contribute to the MRC’s engagement with the public and in the translation of research findings into improvements in health care.
Key Responsibilities
The key responsibility is to undertake cutting edge research, aimed at key questions within the remit of the research group. They will be expected to provide the intellectual energy and independent thinking necessary to deliver the research and to play a major role in shaping the overall aims and success of the group.
While some advice will be available from others in the Unit, the post holder will be expected to have the skill and understanding to be able to act independently in solving problems, many of which may require novel approaches. This will require the integration of different activities to ensure the successful delivery of the research projects.
Check that the microscopy equipment and facilities are maintained in good working order and liaising with Lab Management and equipment suppliers to ensure that any issues are dealt with effectively
Maintain up to date knowledge of advanced microscopy equipment and techniques, including actively communicating and networking with other facilities and equipment suppliers
To introduce and apply new techniques across a wide range of disciplines, and to have the creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches.
To interact effectively with a wide range of staff, students and others to ensure the smooth running of the research group. This will include setting an example in the effective use of resources, training others in methods and use of equipment and taking responsibility for the use of communal facilities. To potentially take on specific responsibilities for managing equipment.
To write scientific papers and to present at internal meetings and at conferences.
To ensure the research is conducted in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements.
To recognise opportunities for the creation of intellectual property and to cooperate in patent protection and in exploitation.
To identify opportunities for additional funding, and to apply for external grants where appropriate.
Where line management responsibilities are undertaken, these responsibilities, including staff development and performance management, should be applied in accordance with the MRC’s policies and procedures. Training will be provided if required.
Working relationships:
The postholder will report to Professor Massimo Zeviani and will liaise with other Research Support staff, post-doctoral scientists and students within the Group and across the MBU and with external collaborators.
Additional information:
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. Any changes should be made and agreed between the post holder and their manager.
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 Cellular and Molecular Biology.
Desirable:
Post-doctoral training in a relevant biological subject.
Previous work experience required:
Essential:
Significant postdoctoral research experience in biochemistry of the respiratory chain, confocal microscopy, mass spectrometry.
Experience in management of a microscopy facility
Desirable:
Work on animal models (e.g. zebrafish) and super-resolution microscopy.
Knowledge and experience:
Specific Research Skills
Essential:
Molecular and cell biology. Biochemistry of the respiratory chain and mitochondrial bioenergetics. Proteomics. Confocal microscopy.
Desirable:
Super-resolution microscopy. Quantitative proteomics (SILAC).
Creativity and Initiative
Essential:
Has developed new techniques/methodologies, which have added value to scientific work. Experience/results in cutting edge research
Desirable:
Have independent scientific recognition.
Independent working
Essential:
Proven skills in working independently to solve experimental problems.
Desirable:
Ability to get external funding.
Verbal and written communication skills
Essential:
Experience in presenting scientific work, both written and orally.
Desirable:
Good quality first author publications in a relevant field.
Mentoring
Essential:
Has experience of training others “on the job”. Expecially in use of microscopy equipment and facilities.
Desirable:
Line management experience. Skills in lab managing and tutorship of PhD students.
Collaborations/ Influencing Skills
Essential:
Has strong skills and experience in working collaboratively as a member of a team.
Desirable:
Collegial attitude, ability to resolve conflicts.
Intellectual Property
Essential:
Understanding of how research activities are affected by and will impact on MRC’s mission statements on knowledge transfer.
Desirable:
Confidentiality skills.
Personal skills/behaviours/qualities:
Essential:
Excellent standards of Research Conduct, Highly-motivated, Strong team player, Capable of taking independent decisions, Collaborative.
Desirable:
Proactive in problem-solving and managing potential conflicts.
Additional information:

Investigator Scientist Job description and person specification Page 2 of 6