Postdoctoral Researcher - Structural Studies - Dr Suyang Zhang - LMB 2761

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology

We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher to join Dr Suyang Zhang’s group to investigate the mechanism of co-transcriptional splicing. The project aims to understand the mechanism of crosstalk between the transcription and splicing machineries using a combined biochemical and structural approach with a focus on cryo-EM and isolation from endogenous sources.

In eukaryotes, RNA synthesis and splicing are intricately coupled to each other to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of pre-mRNA processing. Despite advances in our understanding of transcription and splicing as two separate processes, the molecular mechanisms underlying co-transcriptional splicing in a cellular context remain to be elucidated. We have defined the structural basis for the co-transcriptional recruitment of U1 snRNP (Science 2021, Nature comms 2025), which provided a model of how distant intron ends can be functionally paired for splicing. Additionally, we have discovered a regulatory mechanism that modulates Pol II elongation rate, shedding light on how Pol II speed may change across introns and exons (NSMB 2025).

The successful candidate should have a PhD in biological sciences or due to complete PhD within 6 months, and a strong background in structural biology, biochemistry or cell biology. Experience in protein purification and mammalian cell work are desirable. The candidate should have worked independently and have good communication skills for teamwork.

This is a three-year training and development position suitable for you if you have recently completed your doctoral studies, or you are looking to move into a new research discipline and/or need to further develop your research skills. Working with our world class scientists you will be working in an Institute renowned for its excellent scientific facilities and high-quality research.

For further information, please visit: https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/group-leaders/t-to-z/suyang-zhang/

Informal enquiries are welcomed and can be sent directly to Suyang Zhang (szhang@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk)

The LMB has a collaborative working culture and state-of-the-art building based on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have on-site parking, cycle enclosures and excellent public transport links to the site. We have a staff restaurant with roof terrace and access to a Campus nursery and sports and social facilities. You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme, a holiday entitlement of 40.5 days (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing training and development opportunities including support towards role-related qualifications. Further information about the benefits available can be found at http://www.discover.ukri.org/benefits-of-working-at-ukri.

The LMB is a world-class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is nine research councils, working together across all disciplines and sectors. More information can be found at www.ukri.org and www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit our job board via the ‘Apply’ button above.

If you are unable to apply online please contact us at recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening.

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes women, minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require; recruit@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.