Research Fellow in Microfluidic Hydrogen-Deuterium Exchange Mass Spectrometry

Development of ultra-fast microfluidic processors for investigating protein dynamics

Life Sciences Building, University of Southampton

The Biomedical Microfluidics group (West) and Mass Spectrometry groups (Reading) are based in the Life Sciences Building in Southampton and have a strong track record of developing new methods for biological discovery. The labs have a keen interest in extending the state of the art for time-resolved protein bioscience.

An exciting opportunity now presents itself for a postdoctoral Research Fellow to use existing microfluidic devices and developing next generation microfluidic devices for protein hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS). These devices will greatly improve the temporal resolution to provide a new means to study protein plasticity and conformational dynamics. This cutting-edge interdisciplinary project is a collaboration between the West and Reading labs and will position the post-holder at the forefront of HDX-MS and microfluidic fields.

The post-holder will possess expertise in one or more of analytical chemistry, mass spectrometry and HDX-MS, NMR and microfluidics. As required, time will be dedicated to learning new techniques to deliver the research. These techniques will be used to develop and test-drive a fast HDX-MS technology to gain new insights into protein dynamics.

You will be motivated, educated to PhD* level in a relevant subject area, ideally have practical laboratory experience of mass spectrometry or microfluidics and be prepared to travel to Exeter and Toronto (1 week each) at the end of the project to share the technology with collaborators.

*Soon to graduate PhD candidates are encouraged to apply too.

The position is full-time and for 12 months in the first instance. The start date is flexible but the successful candidate is expected to be in post by 1^st December 2024 at the latest. For an informal discussion or to arrange a visit please contact Dr Jonathan West (J.J.West@soton.ac.uk).

Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.