Post-doc position, UCL, London

[Charras, Guillaume]

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Dear colleagues,

Apologies for the mass mailing.

I have a post-doctoral position available at University College London. Please see the details below.

I would be very grateful if you could pass this on to anyone who may be interested.

Best wishes
Guillaume

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We are pleased to announce a call for applications for a postdoctoral researcher to study the regulation of the structure and mechanics of the actin cortex by SPIN90 in the laboratory of Dr Guillaume Charras.

The aim of this project is to examine the role of the nucleation promoting factor SPIN90 on cellular cortex organization and mechanics. One of the most striking properties of living cells is their ability to change shape during processes, such as division, migration, and differentiation. These shape changes are governed by mechanical changes in the actomyosin cortex. Changes in cortical mechanics can originate from changes in myosin activity or cortex architecture. While we have a detailed understanding of the role of myosin, we know much less about how actin network organisation is controlled and how it influences mechanics. One potential mechanism involves regulating the activity of proteins that initiate filament polymerization, the actin nucleators. Despite their central role in generating actomyosin structures, little is known about how nucleators are coordinated despite this potentially representing a key mechanism for cells to alter their shape and mechanics in response to signalling. Our previous work revealed that SPIN90 plays a key role in mediating the interplay between nucleators in the cortex to control cell shape and mechanics during cell division and tissue morphogenesis (Cao et al, Nat Cell Biol, 2020).

In this project, we will use molecular cell biology and biophysics approaches to determine the exact molecular and biophysical mechanisms through which SPIN90 controls cortex structure and mechanics.  We will identify proteins interactors using BioID, examine where and when SPIN90 interacts with nucleators, and determine the changes in cortex organization and mechanics induced by SPIN90.

Work will be carried out both at the London Centre for Nanotechnology and the project involves collaborations with research groups in Paris, Montreal, Lisbon, and Pittsburgh.

The successful candidate will be an exceptional, highly-motivated and independent scientist with a PhD degree and a strong research track record in a relevant area of the life sciences or physical sciences, as well as experience at working within an interdisciplinary team. Extensive experience in cell biology, molecular biology, and confocal microscopy is essential. Additional experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, biochemistry, proteomics, programming, and AFM is desirable. The position will be for three years with a preferred starting date of 1st of September 2021. Appointment will be made with a salary in the range of £36,028-43,553 per year inclusive of London allowance and dependent on experience.

Informal inquiries about the position and project should be directed to Dr Guillaume Charras ([hidden email]<mailto:[hidden email]>) who will be supervising the research.

Candidates should apply via the UCL HR website. The link and full advertisement can be found here:
https://www.nature.com/naturecareers/job/research-fellow-university-college-london-ucl-738278


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The closing date for applications is 3rd of May 2021.