Postdoctoral Research Associate in Biological Chemistry (Fixed Term - Multiple Posts)

Location: University Park

Salary: Salary progression beyond this scale is subject to performance.

The Thomas Group is seeking to recruit a highly motivated and skilled biological chemist with molecular biology/protein engineering experience for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate/Fellow post in Drug delivery Chemistry, based in the Biodiscovery Institute as a member of School of Chemistry at the University of Nottingham.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a well- established and multidisciplinary research team comprising of chemists, engineering biologists and pharmaceutical scientists led by Prof. Neil R. Thomas in collaboration with Dr Tracey Bradshaw (Pharmacy) and Dr Lyudmila Turyanska (Engineering) as part of a substantial UKRI-funded Engineering Biology Mission award. The work will be conducted in the Biodiscovery Institute which is a large (850 researchers) ‘state of the art’ facility for multidisciplinary research at the interface between Biology, Chemistry and Medicine. The successful candidate will generate, characterise and evaluate modified protein nanocages designed for the targeted delivery of a range of therapeutic cargoes using a variety of molecular biology, protein chemistry, spectroscopic and analytical techniques. The project will also involve training in the use of super resolution microscopy and mammalian cell culture. Optimised delivery vehicles will be further characterised in collaboration the Medicines Discovery Catapult who are partners on the project.

The successful candidate will have delegated responsibility for safe laboratory practice within the group and contribute to the smooth running of the research laboratory and day-to-day supervision of PhD and project students. They will also aid in writing publications, present research at national and international conferences and liaise with collaborators. In addition to pursuing the goals of the research project, the successful candidate will be given support and freedom to develop their own research ideas. Hence, this position may be particularly attractive to those looking to develop their research independence and leadership skills in a supportive and team-oriented environment. They will also be able to undertake a small amount of undergraduate teaching (e.g., small group tutorials) if desired.

PhD (or near completion) in biological chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacy, biochemical engineering, or a related field required. Must have expertise in protein expression, mutagenesis and purification elements of protein engineering, as well as practical experience in mammalian cell culture. Experience in nanoscale material characterization is desirable, in addition to basic organic chemistry skills. Strong organisational, communication, and team-working skills are required.

There are three fixed-term, full-time (36.25 hours per week) posts available until February 28, 2026. 

Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof. Neil R. Thomas, email neil.thomas@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

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