Research Fellow in Synthetic Biology

About the role

The main purpose of this position is to lead the molecular- and micro-biology aspects of a BBSRC-funded project focused on engineering robust, modular, synthetic microbial communities. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on foundational research with huge potential to be applied to pressing global challenges in medicine, manufacturing, environmental remediation etc.

You will create genetic tools for the modular engineering of interactions between microbes, develop protocols for the high-throughput characterisation of genetic circuit and co-culture dynamics, implement different community designs to explore their behaviour, and apply these tools to a division-of-labour bioprocess. You will collaborate closely with theorists to tightly integrate hypothesis generation and validation.

You will be expected to disseminate our work through high-quality journal articles and presentations at national and international conferences and workshops

This post is initially funded for 2 years with the possibility to extend up to a further 3 years.

Appointment at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at Grade 6B (salary £39,148 - £41,833 per annum) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD Thesis.

This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff. Please visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/human-resources/conditions-service-research-teaching-and-professional-services-staff for more information.

A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below. To apply, please upload a current CV, complete the online application form, and use the supporting statement section or upload a cover letter to outline how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for the role.

If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please contact the HR Administrator.

About you

A strong candidate will have:

• A biology or biochemistry background with a demonstrable interest in synthetic biology or microbial ecology
• A PhD (or be close to completion) and/or postdoctoral experience using molecular biology techniques to engineer microbes
• Experience with modular cloning approaches and high-throughput genetic circuit characterisation
• Experience with lab automation, bioreactors, and/or microbial co-cultures
• A proven publication record with at least one first author publication in a peer-reviewed journal/conference
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills in English
• Excellent team-work skills with an ability to work collaboratively in a highly interdisciplinary setting
• Demonstrated supervisory experience of undergraduate, graduate or postgraduate students
• Motivation, organisational skills, independence, and ambition to drive a successful project.

This role meets the eligibility requirements for a skilled worker certificate of sponsorship or a global talent visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore, UCL welcomes applications from international applicants who require a visa.

Customer advert reference: B02-09420

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