Postdoctoral Research Associate

MRC PPU / Faculty of Life Sciences

Unit: MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit Contract type: Fixed-Term/ Full-time

Grade 7 sp29-31 (£37,174- £39,355)

We are recruiting for an exceptional individual to join us as a postdoctoral research associate within our Group/Unit/Team, to explore the role of a disease-relevant kinase in B cell function in the gut. This is a fixed-term appointment for 30 months, starting August 2026.

This MRC-funded project will explore the role of a key kinase LRRK2 that is a potential drug target for both Crohn's disease and Parkinson's disease, in intestinal immune homeostasis. The project involves the use of both in viva models and primary human lymphocytes to investigate the function of the kinase LRRK2 in B cells. This research builds upon our previous findings of an inflammation-dependent induction of LRRK2 in B cells (Dikovskaya et al, 2025, PMID: 40394349), and the vast expertise in LRRK2 mechanistic studies in Dundee (Alessi and Pfeffer 2024, PMID: 38621236). We aim to understand the role of disease-relevant LRRK2 mutations using patient samples and biochemical studies.

The successful candidate will have the chance to be involved in ground-breaking research that has high translational potential. There will be opportunities to present the research in national and international meetings and to publish the research findings. In addition, public engagement and patient involvement will form a key part of this position. There will also be opportunities to develop the research further with clinicians and other researchers. The successful candidate will be trained in cutting-edge proteomic technologies, human immunology, -omics analyses, spectral flow cytometry, and other state-of-the-art techniques. Candidates with a keen interest in investigating disease-relevant human immunology, with expertise in B cells are encouraged to apply.

For further information about this position please contact Dr. Mahima Swamy (m.swamy@dundee.ac.uk). To find out more about MRC PPU please visit https:l/www.ppu.mrc.ac.uk/

Your priorities will include:

Strong interest in studying the biochemical underpinnings of human diseases Focus on B cell biology

Confidence in project implementation, decision-making, coordinating collaborative research Willingness to work in a team and contribute to other projects in the lab

Writing and presenting research for publication and at conferences

Who we're looking for:

• Have a PhD in Immunology and at least one publication/preprint demonstrating research output.
• Have established skills with primary B lymphocytes and flow cytometry
• Have a strong ability to work independently but with the communication skills and openness to work in a team
• Be willing to foster an open and collaborative approach to science and have a strong commitment to research integrity
• Have excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• Have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain collaborations

MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC PPU):

The MRC PPU is one of the world's most renowned centres for research on protein phosphorylation and ubiquitylation (http://www.ppu.mrc.ac.uk/). Many world-leading researchers in the field of signal transduction have trained within the MRC PPU. The major aims of the MRC PPU are to advance understanding of the role of protein phosphorylation and ubiquitylation in cell regulation and human disease, to facilitate the development of drugs to treat diseases caused by abnormalities in phosphorylation, to generate reagents and improve technologies. A key remit of the MRC PPU is to train the next generation of scientists who will advance our understanding in this crucial area of medical research.

Faculty of Life Sciences (FLS):

The MRC PPU is based within the Faculty of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee, a world-class academic institution with a reputation for the excellence of its research, its high-quality teaching and student experience, and the strong impact of its activities outside academia. With 900 staff from over 60 countries worldwide the Faculty provides a dynamic, multi-national, collegiate and diverse environment with state-of-the-art laboratory, technology and teaching facilities.

Division of Signal Transduction Unit (DSTT):

The Division of Signal Transduction Therapy (DSTT) was established in 1998. This division operates as a unique collaboration between scientists in the MRC PPU and signalling researchers at the University of Dundee's Faculty of Life Sciences and the pharmaceutical industry. The DSTT is widely regarded as a model for how academia should interact with industry. The DSTT operates as a simple bridging mechanism to enable our Pls working on ubiquitylation and phosphorylation to effectively interact with major pharmaceutical companies to help accelerate the early stages of drug discovery.

We are one of the UK's leading universities, internationally recognised for our expertise across a range of disciplines and research breakthroughs in multiple areas, including science, medicine and engineering, amongst many others. Our purpose is to transform lives, locally and globally, which we do as a community of staff (Professional Services and academic Faculties), students and alumni. Professional Services directorates are key to delivering the University strategy and driving change across the University.

As an internationally diverse institution, we welcome job applicants from all countries and nationalities. The Faculty of Life Sciences is proud to employ staff from over 40 different nations.

The diversity of our staff and students helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for undergraduate, postgraduate and distance learning. Family friendly policies, staff networks for BME, Disabled and LGBT staff, membership of Athena SWAN, the ECU Race Equality Charter and Stonewall as well a full range of disability services, create an enjoyable and inclusive place to work.