Research Associate

Manchester Metropolitan University is seeking to recruit a talented and motivated Research Associate to join an ambitious research project focused on the development of small molecule fluorescent tools for the identification of biologically relevant analytes.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the interface of chemistry and biological systems, working within a collaborative and forward-thinking academic environment.

About the Role

You will play a key role in designing, synthesising and characterising novel photocleavable molecular tools for the identification and quantitation of a range of important biologically relevant analytes, applying advanced spectroscopic and analytical techniques to investigate their behaviour in vitro and in cellular systems.

Working closely with senior academics, you will take responsibility for leading elements of the research project, contributing to experimental design, problem-solving and the delivery of high-quality outputs.

You will also support the wider research environment through dissemination of findings, collaboration with internal and external partners, and contributing to teaching and supervision activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, synthesise and test small molecule fluorescent probes
• Conduct detailed molecular characterisation using techniques such as NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and fluorescence spectroscopy
• Analyse and interpret complex data, producing high-quality research outputs
• Present findings at conferences, seminars and in peer-reviewed journals
• Contribute to the development of research proposals and funding applications
• Support and supervise students where appropriate
• Collaborate across teams and build effective research partnerships

About You

You will have:

• A PhD in a relevant discipline (or equivalent experience)
• Strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry and molecular probe development
• Experience using advanced analytical techniques (e.g. NMR spectroscopy, Mass Spectrometry, fluorescence spectroscopy)
• A track record of contributing to research projects and disseminating findings
• The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a team

Experience of supervising students, developing collaborations, or contributing to funding applications would be advantageous.

Why Join Us?

At Manchester Met, you'll be part of a vibrant research community with a strong commitment to innovation, collaboration and real-world impact. We offer a supportive environment that encourages professional development and career progression.

To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter (of no more than 2 pages) via our application portal. For informal enquiries about the role, please contact Mike Watkinson directly – m.watkinson@mmu.ac.uk.

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.     

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.     

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.     

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.