Postdoctoral Research Associate in Synthetic Biology for Future Materials

Location: South Kensington and White City Campus, London

About the role:

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researchers to lead work in generating novel grown materials in the synthetic biology research group of Professor Tom Ellis in the Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London.

What you would be doing:

This is an ERC-funded role, you will work on using synthetic biology, protein engineering and chemical biology methods to engineer cellulose-based polymers produced by microbes to serve as mimics of the extracellular matrix of developing bone cells. The role is part of the 6-year ERC Synergy project ‘RODIN’ with collaborating groups in Portugal who have expertise in soft matter mechanics, bone cell development and 3D tissue culture for regenerative medicine.

You will genetically engineer bacteria to uptake and polymerize chemically-modified molecules into cellulose-based materials and use innovations in culturing and protein biochemistry to manipulate and functionalise these materials into sculptable films that can be tested in tissue culture. You will need to collaborate closely with an international team working on the same ERC project at two institutes in Portugal who will test the materials and provide training in tissue culture and microscopy methods.

You will get to work on this high-profile, blue skies project and make use state of the art techniques and technologies in a collaborative working environment within and across institutions.

What we are looking for:

You should have a PhD in synthetic biology, biotechnology (or equivalent) for appointment at Research Associate level. Applicants close to completion of their PhDs will also be considered where experience is directly relevant.

You will be experienced with synthetic biology, chemical biology, protein biochemistry, and cell culture. Being familiar with bacterial nanocellulose, protein-based molecular glues, click chemistry, mammalian tissue culture, confocal microscopy and non-model microorganisms would all be advantageous. Full details can be found in the Job Description.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution that is regarded as the number one hub for synthetic biology research in Europe.
• A position in a group highly regarded for its research, for its positive nature and for the excellent outcomes of its alumni, many of whom are now group leaders of their own or founders of start-up companies.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes)