We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success. The Role A Senior Research Associate is required to support laboratory of Professor Heath Murray, focusing on understanding the mechanism of DNA replication initiation in bacteria ( https://www.ncl.ac.uk/cbcb/staff/profile/heathmurray.htmlbackground ). This Wellcome Trust funded position is based at the Centre for Bacterial Cell Biology (CBCB) within the Biosciences Institute at Newcastle University. Bacteria are the most abundant species on Earth, playing central roles in human health and in the environment. A molecular understanding of bacterial cell cycle activities is necessary to control their growth and proliferation. Despite years of study, fundamental aspects of DNA replication initiation in bacteria remain poorly understood. Specifically, the architecture of nucleoprotein complexes required to load helicase(s), and the temporal set of activities that replication initiation proteins perform during the helicase loading reactions, are unclear. This post will involve laboratory-based research, mainly focused on purification of DNA replication proteins and reconstitution of their activities in vitro. This project will combine genetics, biochemistry, and cryo-electron microscopy to unravel the molecular mechanisms of bacterial helicase loading, to near-atomic resolution, at both a chromosome origin and a repaired replication fork. This is a full-time fixed-term post to 31/12/2030. For informal enquiries please contact: Professor Heath Murray heath.murraynewcastle.ac.uk. As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of research role profiles. These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level. Please note that if you are successful to this role, you will require medical clearance before you can commence in the role. £46,485 per annum.