Job Purpose

Objectives of the malaria programme

Our group has been primarily interested in testing the notion that malaria protein kinases can be targeted by novel anti-malarials. In this regard we conducted an extensive programme of research in collaboration with Prof Christian Doerig that described not only the first phospho-proteome of the malaria parasite but importantly identified 36 parasite kinases as essential for parasite survival. Among these essential kinases were the members of the PfCLK family that are thought to be involved in the regulation of RNA processing in the parasite. 

We now wish to take these discoveries forward and establish a full drug discovery programme in collaboration with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) to define novel molecular entities that target parasite protein kinases and that can be progressed to lead anti-malarial drug candidates.

The project 
This project is a collaboration between the GlaxoSmithKline in Tres Cantos Spain, Structural Genomics Consortium in Toronto and Elizabeth Winzler at UCSD aimed at understanding the biology of the PfCLK protein kinase family and validating this family as a target in multiple stages of the malaria parasite

Specifically, the postholder will conduct, manage and publish research in the area of the survival of multiple stages in the malaria parasite with particular focus on the PfCLK protein kinase family as well as assist in managing and directing this complex and challenging project.

Standard Terms & Conditions

Salary will be on the University's Research and Teaching Grade, level 7, £33,574 - £37,768 per annum.

The funding for this post will be for 3 years in the first instance.

New entrants to the University will be required to serve a probationary period of 6 months.

The successful applicant will be eligible to join the Universities' Superannuation Scheme. Further information regarding the scheme is available from the Superannuation Officer, who is also prepared to advise on questions relating to the transfer of Superannuation benefits.

All research and related activities, including grants, donations, clinical trials, contract research, consultancy and commercialisation are required to be managed through the University's relevant processes (e.g. contractual and financial), in accordance with the University Court's policies.

The University has been awarded the Athena SWAN Institutional Bronze Award.