Postdoctoral Research Associate in Synthetic Biology Materials

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Synthetic Biology for Future Materials

Job number ENG
03924, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London. Salary £43,863-£57,472 per annum.

Location:

South Kensington and White City Campus – on site only.

Contract:

full time fixed term, 36 months.

Lead work in generating novel grown materials in the synthetic biology research group of Professor Tom Ellis.

Work on and develop synthetic biology, protein engineering, and chemical biology methods to engineer cellulose-based polymers produced by microbes as mimics of the extracellular matrix of developing bone cells. 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.

Collaborate closely with an international team working on the same ERC Synergy project “RODIN” with collaborating groups in Portugal, who will test the materials and provide training in tissue culture and microscopy methods. Communicate progress, co‑run technical workshops, share data, tools and methods with stakeholders and engage with those working on ethics and governance projects.

PhD in synthetic biology, biotechnology or equivalent. Applicants close to completion of their PhDs will also be considered when experience is directly relevant. Experience with synthetic biology, chemical biology, protein biochemistry, and cell culture, especially familiarity with bacterial nanocellulose, protein‑based molecular glues, click chemistry, mammalian tissue culture, confocal microscopy and non‑model microorganisms is advantageous.

• Opportunity to continue your career at a leading institution recognised as a hub for synthetic biology research in Europe.
• Position in a highly regarded group with a positive culture and successful alumni.
• Sector‑leading salary and remuneration package, including 39 days off per year and generous pension schemes.

Imperial College London is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries and are committed to an inclusive working environment.