Research Associate in Biological Chemistry

Job description:

Are you passionate about cutting-edge science and eager to make a real impact? We are looking for a highly motivated Research Associate to join our dynamic team in the exciting field of Chemical Biology.

You will be helping us to develop innovative methods for the preparation of DNA containing novel carboxymethylated phosphate triesters. The successful candidate will join the established research teams of Dr David Williams (Nucleic Acids Chemistry) and Prof Nick Williams (Mechanistic Organic Chemistry), based in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences and part of the Sheffield Institute for Nucleic Acids.

This Leverhulme Trust-funded project will involve the chemical synthesis and characterisation of nucleosides and nucleic acids modified with carboxymethyl phosphate triesters, as well as the exploration of their properties and potential applications. The position is offered on a fixed-term basis for up to 36 months, starting from October 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter).

The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic and independent researcher with strong teamwork skills. You should possess in-depth knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry, and have an interest or experience in nucleic acid chemistry and/or analysing the properties of nucleic acids. Experience at supervising postgraduate and/or undergraduate students is highly desirable, as is the ability to write high-quality scientific papers and deliver engaging oral presentations

Applicants should hold a good honours degree in Chemistry and either have, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in a relevant subject area such as synthetic organic and/or nucleic acid chemistry.

You will benefit from an excellent mentorship and career development plan, and have the opportunity to mentor postgraduate and undergraduate students.

You should have experience in

• Laboratory Synthetic Organic Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry, Chemical Biology and/or Biological Chemistry
• Purification methods such as HPLC and gel electrophoresis
• Analytical methods that can be applied to understanding the properties of nucleic acids such as melting
• Supervising and mentoring postgraduate and undergraduate students

This position provides an excellent opportunity to develop interdisciplinary skills and the ability to communicate with researchers from different disciplines and backgrounds.

What We Offer:

• 38 days annual leave (including closure days and Bank Holidays), with the possibility to purchase up to ten additional days.
• Up to 5 days of paid time off to cover emergency caring responsibilities.
• A highly competitive pension scheme.
• Discounts at participating shops and cinemas, and a cycle to work scheme.
• A commitment to your development, with programmes, learning modules and mentoring schemes.
• An inclusive and diverse workplace.
• A commitment to your wellbeing, with confidential emotional support.

Further information can be found at https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits

We are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and University.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

Apply now by clicking on the Apply button located near the top of your screen.

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