Research Associate in Biological Validation of Engineered Structures and Materials

Loughborough University

Part-Time, 0.5fte for an initial Fixed-term period of 6 months to support a research feasibility study.

A longer-term extension would be offered pending results from the feasibility study which will inform new research avenues.

Hybrid working split between laboratory/office and remote is possible, pending status of experiments and arising data analysis and publication activities.

Here’s more about the role and what we are looking for:

We are seeking an experienced, creative, enthusiastic and a highly organised individual with proven experience of experimental design and operational protocols in a biological lab setting that would include (but not be limited) to tasks such as: experience in aseptic techniques working and maintaining a biological lab/working area;  cell culture, storing and expansion; cell seeding and cells retrieval in scaffolds; RNA extraction; application of analytical techniques such as qPCR and related standard assays; operation of equipment required for qPCR analysis, supporting data analysis of experimental outcomes and co-authoring of quality publications to disseminate the findings.

The experimental work will include both static and dynamic cell culture protocols, the latter using custom-designed assemblies, that together shall explore the bio-validation of engineered porous scaffolds, of various detailed topologies and/or materials, for their potential as surgical implants.

You will be based within the Multifunctional Materials Manufacturing Laboratory at Wolfson School with significant time also spent in our Centre for Biological Engineering.

In this crucial role, you will take a key lead in the design, execution and reporting of the biological assessment via experimental activities that support a wider project investigating optimum features in scaffolds intended for surgical implantation. 

You’ll bring with you prior experience of designing and developing experimental protocols, bio-lab experimental practice and bio-analytical techniques (esp. standard assays, qPCR etc.), report writing, data analysis and publication.

Key Requirements:

• Experience of bio-analytical techniques, such as aseptic techniques, cell culture, qPCR, and other standard assays.
• Experience of acquiring and analysing data derived from analytical techniques
• Experience of working in a biological laboratory environment
• Experience of deriving experimental designs and protocols in a bio-lab environment
• Demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrate excellent self-management and organisational skills, given the nature of the experiments, as well a committed approach to work
• Have a PhD degree in a related subject or equivalent experience.

Find out more about the Research opportunities we have on offer on our dedicated Microsite .

Closing date for applications: 17^th April 2023 

A copy of the job description and person specification is available here 

Our Publications:

https://www.riedesign.org

https://www.lboro.ac.uk/news-events/news/2021/june/cyber-seed-reid-project/

https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/meme/staff/paul-conway/

https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/meme/staff/carmen-torres-sanchez/

https://carmentorressanchez.wordpress.com/

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Carmen Torres-Sanchez via email to c.torres@lboro.ac.uk or by telephone to 01509 227 518

Our Benefits

• Generous annual leave allowance up to 44 days p.a. (inclusive of Bank Holidays & University Closure Days)
• Competitive pension schemes
• A range of childcare support initiatives and benefits including childcare vouchers; on-site university nursery (with salary sacrifice scheme); and holiday play schemes.
• We offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies.
• BUPA Cash Plan (100 scheme)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticker loan scheme
• On campus parking with charging points for electric vehicles
• Fantastic range of sports facilities and preferential membership packages available
• Fantastic CPD, Linkedin learning and inclusive resources for development