Research Associate (Chemistry)

Role Description
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position for up to 36 months to work with Professor Gideon Grogan and Dr William Unsworth in the Department of Chemistry. The project is funded by the EPSRC.

Department
The Department of Chemistry is one of the largest and most successful departments at York and we are renowned internationally for our research. As a department, we strive to provide a working environment that allows all staff and students to contribute fully, to flourish, and to excel. We are proud of our Athena Swan Gold Award.

Role
The project will focus on exploring the application of Amine Dehydrogenase enzymes to the generation of pharmaceutically relevant intermediates. There will be a special focus on the evolution of these enzymes and their applications in synthetic organic and process chemistry. This appointment will suit a candidate with strong training in chemical synthesis and analysis, ideally also with experience in enzyme production and biocatalytic approaches. The position is tenable for a period of 36 months available from September 2025.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• To conduct research under the supervision of Professor Gideon Grogan and Dr William Unsworth and to contribute to the production of research into the application of Amine Dehydrogenase enzymes to the generation of pharmaceutically relevant intermediates.
• To assist in the identification and development of potential areas of research and the development of proposals for independent or collaborative research projects.
• To provide guidance to other staff and students, as required, as well as coordinating the work of small research teams and assist with undergraduate project supervision.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications Needed

• An undergraduate degree and PhD in Chemistry or equivalent.
• Knowledge in organic synthesis and analysis to engage in high-quality research using a range of research techniques and methodologies.
• Extensive skills in synthetic organic chemistry and analysis including analysis of small organic molecules using NMR spectroscopy.
• Experience of enzyme production and biocatalytic reactions advantageous.
• Highly developed communication skills, attention to detail and commitment to high quality.
• Evidenced ability to develop research objectives, plan and prioritise work, and conduct individual and collaborative research.
• Ability to write up research work for publication and competency at presenting at conferences.
• Positive attitude to colleagues and students and a willingness to work proactively.
• Commitment to personal development and an understanding of equality and diversity issues.

Interview date: to be confirmed.

For informal enquiries: please contact Prof Gideon Grogan, email gideon.grogan@york.ac.uk, or Dr William Unsworth, email william.unsworth@york.ac.uk.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

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