The UCL Mass Spectrometry Science Technology Platform (MS-STP: academic lead Prof Kostas Thalassinos) provides access to a world-class portfolio of mass spectrometry and sample preparation technologies supporting structural biology, proteomics, single-cell, and spatial biology research. The facility houses a Waters Select Series Cyclic IMS, Xevo G2-XS QTof with Acquity UPLC M-Class, Waters BioAccord System, Orbitrap Eclipse Tribrid Mass Spectrometer, and an Orbitrap Astral Zoom platform enabling next-generation single-cell proteomics. In addition, the hub hosts a CellenOne system for automated single-cell isolation and preparation, and a Syncell Microscoop platform for subcellular proteomics, allowing proteome measurements to be performed from defined cellular structures and regions.
http://www.ucl.ac.uk/chemistry
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/science-technology-platforms/mass-spectrometry
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Researcher in Mass Spectrometry to contribute to a multidisciplinary project investigating cyclic antimicrobial peptide–lipid interactions at molecular resolution. This project is part of an EPSRC Open Plus Fellowship led by Professor Alethea Tabor in collaboration with Professor Kostas Thalassinos. The overall goal of the project is to develop and apply advanced structural mass spectrometry methodologies, especially XL-MS, to understand how cyclic antimicrobial peptides interact with their target lipids, and to support the development of new antimicrobial strategies against multidrug-resistant bacteria.
In this project, you will lead the development and application of structural mass spectrometry approaches alongside complementary biophysical techniques using model lipid bilayers and contribute to the development of computational models of peptide–lipid complexes. You will work in a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary environment embedded within both research groups, partnering closely with a Research Fellow in Chemical Biology and a PhD student who will design and synthesise bespoke photoreactive peptides for these studies.
You will also engage with collaborators across UCL and partner institutions including Queen’s University Belfast, University of Nottingham, Utrecht University, and Uppsala University, spanning expertise in biophysics, microbiology, NMR, and lipid synthesis. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to deliver high-quality results in a timely manner will be essential for success in this role.
The appointment will be for a fixed term of 2 years initially, with potential for extension subject to funding and/or project requirements.
You will have a PhD (or be close to completion) in Mass Spectrometry, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics or a related discipline, with experience of structural mass spectrometry techniques and computational analyses. Expertise in handling membrane proteins or peptides and studying biomolecular interactions in model membranes, and experience in cross-linking mass spectrometry, would be advantageous.
You will be able to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, demonstrating strong organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills. The ability to manage your time, deliver high-quality results to agreed deadlines, and engage constructively with collaborators is essential.
You will also be willing to contribute to the wider research environment, including supporting student supervision, participating in teaching and public engagement activities, and contributing to the safe and effective operation of laboratory facilities. A track record of contributing to publications in peer-reviewed journals, or clear potential to do so, is expected.
For a full job description and person specification and to apply for the vacancy, please click on the ‘Apply' button. Please upload a CV, list of publications and covering letter stating why you are interested in the role and how you meet the criteria.
Customer advert reference: B04-07792
