Research Assistant/Associate in Encoded Library Technologies

3 weeks ago


Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom Newcastle University Full time

The Role

We are seeking to recruit a research assistant and post-doctoral research associate - in the area of cyclic peptide discovery and innovation using mRNA display on a project funded by the European Research Council. 

The School of Natural & Environmental Sciences pioneers training and research which impacts society from the local area to all corners of the planet. Our School provides a distinctive breadth of subjects and specialisms and our ground-breaking research has led to new treatments for ovarian cancer, the discovery of the world's deepest-living fish, enzymes which promote deep cleaning and the development of pest-resistant crops.

The main responsibilities of the role are to use cyclic peptide mRNA display platform to generate inhibitors/tool compounds of therapeutically relevant protein targets and to contribute to development of the platform technology to extend its potential. Previous experience in screening/selection using encoded library techniques is strongly preferred or experience in at least two areas out of molecular biology, peptide discovery and next-generation sequencing.

The successful candidates will be part of a team of experienced chemists, chemical biologists and molecular/cell biologists in the , situated in the recently refurbished state-of-the-art chemical biology laboratories in the Bedson building at Newcastle University. You should be able to work independently, have exceptional time management skills and also work as part of a team including with internal and external collaborators.

We are committed to building and maintaining a fair and inclusive working environment and we would be happy to discuss arrangements for flexible and/or blended working.

For more information on the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences click

For more information on Newcastle Univierstites Chemistry discipline click

To apply, please complete an online application and upload a CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter is a supporting statement and you should outline how you meet the essential criteria of the role and evidence this with examples. 

The role is fixed term for 12 months.

For informal queires please contact Professor Akane Kawamura

Key Accountabilities

Carry out mRNA display techniques to identify cyclic peptides with suitable affinity and binding modes for development into chemical tools to investigate biological questions Contribute to innovation of the technology platform towards more efficient hit identification Ensure intellectual rigour and adherence to robust ethical standards to maintain integrity of research Contribute to the smooth running of the group, acting as a source of advice and information

Additionally for Senior Research Associate

For postdoctoral associate, the successful candidate will provide supervision for other group members, assisting them in planning their research and giving specialised training as required


The Person

Knowledge, Skills and Experience 

Experience in peptide / protein chemistry, molecular biology and / or next-generation sequencing Be able to demonstrate a high level of expertise and success in the previous research areas, e.g. by an excellent publication (or papers in press or equivalent) track record in high quality peer reviewed journals. Evidence will be sought of a deep understanding of the applicant's previous fields of research and evidence of independent intellectual and practical contributions to previous research projects, as indicators that such attributes can be brought to bear on present projects and the development of future projects Have an excellent general knowledge of related areas through reading of the literature, online database searching, and attendance at seminars and conferences Have excellent communication skills in English in writing and in oral and visual presentations Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, scientific integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements Show an ability to undertake research with a high degree of independence, manage your own research and report on progress at regular intervals

Desirable

Have expertise using ‘display’ screening techniques such as mRNA-display, phage display, DNA-encoded libraries or similar   A background including biophysical techniques (such as isothermal titration calorimetry, bio-layer interferometry or surface plasmon

Attributes and Behaviour

Be viewed as a motivated, enthusiastic, organised self-starter; one who can work with a high degree of independence and work well with others but at the same time extract the benefits of an excellent research environment Take an active role in keeping the laboratory running by assuming a share of group responsibilities, cultivate a positive and supportive working environment and directly educate more junior co-workers working on related projects Be willing to learn new techniques and apply them in an interdisciplinary research environment in an autonomous manner Be able to work as part of a team and interact extensively with other researchers, and take part in joint projects through co-operation and the exchange of information and skills Be willing to participate in group journal clubs and workshops as a means to continuously improve technical and theoretical knowledge. Ability to obtain information from literature and from colleagues and integrate this into developing and optimizing work procedures. Be a source of information on scientific protocols and experimental techniques


Qualifications

Essential for Research Assistant

Hold a Masters in Biochemistry / Chemistry / Chemical Biology or a related area or have equivalent experience

Essential for Research Associate

Hold a PhD in Biochemistry / Chemistry / Chemical Biology or a related area, (or have submitted a PhD thesis prior to taking up the appointment) or have equivalent experience

Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.

We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.

At Newcastle University we hold a silver award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality. We also hold a Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC. We are a employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme.

In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe. 

Requisition ID: 27221


We ensure there's something for everyone and these benefits include: a cycle-to-work schemeshopping discountscompetitive pension schemehealth and wellbeing initiativesactivities and eventsgenerous leavediscounted travelChristmas shutdown



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