Postdoctoral Research Associate

About us

The Research Group 

We are a synthetic chemistry group working in supramolecular and biological chemistry, and nanotechnology. We work in the Francis Crick Institute in London, and at King's College London.

Our research looks at how we can apply Supramolecular Chemistry in Biological settings. Supramolecular Chemistry is the study of intermolecular, non-covalent interactions. These non-covalent interactions are critical to protein folding, DNA base pairing, and cellular signalling. Supramolecular Chemistry applies these same principles to create artificial systems capable of performing complex tasks.

The McTernan Group aims to apply recent breakthroughs in artificial molecular machines, high-affinity host-guest chemistry, and metal-organic capsules, in biologically relevant settings. We work with rotaxanes, catenanes, macrocycles and capsules to synthesise functional architectures, creating de novo catalytic enzyme analogues, artificial cellular receptors, and targeted drug delivery vehicles. We also work to create supramolecular analogues of known therapeutic modalities. We work both in basic science, and on translational applications.

Details of research projects currently being undertaken can be seen at: mcternanresearchgroup.com

Research techniques used in the laboratory include: Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, Host-Guest Studies, NMR, ITC, HRMS, MSMS, CD, SPR, Fluorescence, UV-Vis, Bilayer Assays, Water Transport Assays, Self-Assembly, Cell Culture, Assay Development, Proteomics, Western Blot, Synthetic Inorganic Chemistry, Lipid Nanoparticles.

About the role

The Project

In this project, the successful candidate will work on synthesising metal-organic capsules with precisely functionalised interiors, using sequence-specific peptides, building on our recent successes in the area (Chem, 2024; ACIE, 2025;Chem. Sci., 2026). We are looking to build heteroleptic assemblies, and to generate diversified interior cavities as primitive enzyme mimics. The successful candidate will collaborate widely both within the group, and across the Crick and King’s. This role would suit a team player who enjoys juggling multiple projects and building relationships across disciplines.

Skills in synthetic chemistry are essential to the role, skills in any of: total synthesis, peptide synthesis, self-assembly, or cell work, would be useful in the role.

Skills in organic synthesis, supramolecular chemistry, peptide synthesis, and chemical biology would all be useful in this role. Other desirable skills include cell culture, assay design, and interpreting self-assembly. The candidate would not be expected to have all these skills; rather they would be enabled to gain new skills through extensive in house and wider training.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a vibrant and diverse team of 15 chemists and chemical biologists, working at a leading biological research institute. The post holder will be supported to develop new skills at the interface of chemistry with biology, with support from world-leading Science and Technology Platform scientists.

There will be opportunities to work across the group, from advanced organic synthesis, host-guest studies, peptide synthesis, antibody-drug conjugate design, and lipid nanoparticle optimisation, to biological assays, managing contract research organisations, and liaising with the Biological Research Facility.

International applicants welcome.

This is a full time (35 hours per week) post, offered on a fixed term contract until 31/08/27.

Research staff at King’s are entitled to at least 10 days per year (pro-rata) for professional development. This entitlement, from the  Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, applies to Postdocs, Research Assistants, Research and Teaching Technicians, Teaching Fellows and AEP equivalent up to and including grade 7. Visit the  Centre for Research Staff Development for more information.

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