Research Support Assistant

**View Vacancy - Research Support Assistant - Neurobiology - Dr Ingo Greger - LMB 2702**:
**Open Date**
- 22/08/2025, 08:00

**Close Date**
- 31/08/2025, 23:55
Research Institute
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
Research Institute / Unit Information

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably protein crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies. The LMB has a clear goal of understanding biological processes at the molecular level, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease. We aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years.

There are four scientific Divisions - Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology. However, scientific collaboration between the different Divisions is extensive. Scientists are well supported by excellent scientific facilities and by the LMB Operations Group which maintains the core infrastructure and services of the institute.

The LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both new and established researchers. Scientists are drawn to the LMB from all over the world, thus creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and technical innovationBand
MRC - 6
Location
Cambridge
Salary
£26,543 - £28,419 per annum
Contract Type
Fixed Term
Job Type
Science
Full Time / Part Time
Full Time
Contract Length
until 30 September 2026
Job Description

**Overall purpose**:
To work within the group of Dr Ingo Greger at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) and provide research support for work on AMPA receptors using a combination of imaging and electrophysiology. The aim would be 2-fold - first, we shall characterise AMPAR variants in HEK293 using various patch-clamp approaches and test therapeutic ligands on AMPAR-TARP complexes; secondly, we shall introduce AMPAR variants into organotypic slice cultures using either AAV viruses or single-cell electroporation, changes in synaptic (and somatic patch) responses will then be assess by patch clamp recordings.

Depending on the outcome, you may also be involved in super-resolution microscopy of AMPAR and various synaptic markers.

**Main duties/ Key responsibilities**:

- To study and undertake research aimed at assessing AMPA receptor variants by patch-clamp electrophysiology
- To prioritise and plan experiments in consultation with Senior Group Members.
- To present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings.
- To help maintain an efficient and tidy laboratory.
- To keep detailed and accurate records of experiments.
- With appropriate training recognise problems, solving those within the bounds of the post and referring more complex problems to the Line Manager or other appropriate members of staff.
- Participation in group discussions and meetings.
- Work with both your supervisor and other members of the project team on the above support tasks.

**Working relationships**:
You will report to Dr Ingo Greger. You will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support staff and Students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external groups as necessary. You will have day to day guidance by one identified Postdoctoral Scientist for each of up to two projects.

**Additional information**:
The above lists are not exhaustive and you are 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 Specification

**Education / qualifications / training required**:

- Essential:_
- A bachelor’s degree in pharmacology, neuroscience or a related discipline

**Previous work experience required**:

- Essential:_ _
- Experience of working in a biological lab, using mammalian cell culture and electrophysiology.
- Acquaintance with basic laboratory procedures such as DNA cloning.

**Knowledge and experience**:
**Verbal and written communication skills**:

- Essential:_
- Ability to communicate in written and verbal form.
- Desirable: _
- Ability to organise presentations and prepare visual aids independently.

**Creativity and initiative**:

- Essential: _
- Ability to plan and carefully execute experiments.

**Personal skills / behaviours / qualities**:

- Essential:_
- Conscientious with a willingness to learn by listening to guidance.
- Attention to detail.
- Motivated individual with a strong desire for self and team development.
- Curiosity about science.
- Interest in a scientific career.
Further Information

You must at all times carry out your responsibilities with due regard to the UKRI:

- Code of Conduct
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
-