Research Associate in Genetic Design and Assembly for Gene Therapy

Location: South Kensington Campus 

About the role: 

We are pleased to announce the opportunity to join the team of an international UK-Singapore consortium CIRCBIONET: Circular Bioeconomy through Engineering Biology Network for Speciality Chemicals. The consortium brings together a diversity of expertise with the objective of addressing the transition to sustainable biosynthetic processes, working towards a circular bioeconomy by design. The project will develop novel biosynthetic pathways and develop non-conventional microbial hosts to facilitate the valorisation of waste. The role of this post will be to harness automation and standardisation to facilitate workflows across the consortium. The post will be based in the group of Prof Geoff Baldwin (https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/g.baldwin) at the South Kensington Campus of Imperial. 

Specifically, we are looking for someone experienced in DNA assembly for Synthetic Biology, especially BASIC assembly, as well as Python coding and automation experience with Opentrons liquid handling platforms. 

What you would be doing: 

In this role you will be expected to perform experiments to a high standard. 

Your key responsibilities will be to: 

• Define new interchange standards for DNA assembly methods
• Develop and apply a BASIC DNA assembly parts library for Bacillus subtilis
• Apply these methods to automated protocols on Opentrons OT2 and Flex
• Assist with training and communication of standards and protocols across the consortium
• Present data for interpretation by others.
• Ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times
• Present findings to colleagues, consortium partner meetings and at conferences
• Write up the finding for submission to refereed journals
• Take responsibility for organising resources and effective decision making in support of research
• Direct the work of small research teams including undergraduate and postgraduate students

What we are looking for:

• A PhD degree (or equivalent) in Biological Sciences or a related field
• Practical experience in a broad range of techniques including molecular biology and protein biochemistry
• Experience of DNA Assembly for Synthetic Biology, particularly BASIC assembly, essential
• Experience of automation, particularly with Opentrons, essential.
• Experience of Python coding, essential.
• Experience of working with Bacillus subtilis, desirable.
• The ability to organise your own work with minimal supervision and prioritise in response to deadlines
• The ability to supervise others (e.g. Masters and Undergraduate students)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Practical experience within a research environment and publication in relevant and refereed journals

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).

Further Information

This is a full time, fixed-term position, (35 hours per week).

This role is for a fixed-term contract for 18 months from 01. April 2026. Please note this is not a hybrid post and the appointee will be expected to work in person and be present as directed during core hours (10 am – 4pm). You will be based at South Kensington Campus.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Professor Geoff Baldwin by email: g.baldwin@imperial.ac.uk.

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