Research Fellow in Structural Mass Spectrometry

University of Birmingham - School of Biosciences

Salary:Due to limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7, salary £36,636 – £38,784

Contract Type:1 year Fixed Term Contract

Research Fellow (Post-doctoral Researcher) in Structural Mass Spectrometry

The Aneika Leney Laboratory is seeking an enthusiastic and talented Postdoctoral Researcher to join our dynamic and expanding team at the University of Birmingham. Our group specialises in advanced native mass spectrometry, HDX‑MS, cross‑linking mass spectrometry, and structural proteomics for interrogating protein complexes and assemblies. We use state‑of‑the‑art instrumentation and integrated biochemical workflows to define stoichiometry, map interaction interfaces, and monitor conformational dynamics across diverse macromolecular systems. These complementary structural MS approaches allow us to capture assemblies in their native states, quantify dynamic changes, and generate high‑resolution insights into protein organisation and function.

The Leney laboratory applies structural mass spectrometry to investigate diverse and impactful problems—from designing and analysing coiled‑coil architectures and developing molecular glues that reprogramme protein interactions, to resolving the structure and dynamics of photosynthetic complexes in cyanobacteria. Our work also extends into environmental proteomics, where we have pioneered native mass spectrometry for the rapid detection of cyanobacteria and their toxins from fresh water lakes. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to these interdisciplinary research areas while working within a collaborative, well‑resourced mass spectrometry environment within the Advanced Mass Spectrometry Facility.

Please attach to your application the following:

• Cover letter (1 page max outlining your motivations and suitability for the post)
• CV, which should include a full publication list
• Letters of recommendation or contact details of potential referees

Further information on the research group can be found at: www.leney-mass-spectrometry.com. Selected research publications include:

• Hydrogen‐Deuterium Exchange Mass Spectrometry for Molecular Glue Characterization. Advanced Sci. https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/advs.202508543
• Mass spectrometry reveals the evolutionary conservation of phycobiliprotein complexes. Nature Commun. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-69558-y
• A protein-centric mass spectrometry approach for species identification within harmful algal blooms. Am.Chem.Soc. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/jacs.5c07419

The closing date for applications is 23rd April 2026.

Informal enquires can be made to Aneika Leney, a.leney@bham.ac.uk

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.