At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a pioneering lab to engineer sustainable solutions using cutting-edge synthetic biology.
- Company: Imperial College London, a world-leading institution in bioengineering and biotechnology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 41 days off, career support, and a collaborative work culture.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact on sustainability while working with top researchers across Europe.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and experience in molecular or metabolic engineering.
The predicted salary is between 34650 - 42350 £ per year.
About the role Are you passionate about engineering biology and developing sustainable solutions to address global environmental challenges?We are seeking an ambitious and highly motivated Post Doctoral Researcher to join the Rodrigo Ledesma-Amaro Lab in the Department of Bioengineering at Imperial College London as part of the PROPEL project, an exciting European collaborative initiative developing next-generation sustainable biomanufacturing technologies.
The successful candidate will join the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein and the Microbial Food Hub, internationally recognised centres driving innovation in engineering biology, precision fermentation and sustainable food systems.
Working within a multidisciplinary and collaborative research environment, you will contribute to pioneering research at the interface of synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, microbial biotechnology and bioprocess engineering.
This role will focus on engineering the oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica to produce high-value lipids using state-of-the-art synthetic biology and metabolic engineering approaches.
As part of the PROPEL consortium, you will contribute to developing innovative biological manufacturing platforms that transform renewable and waste-derived carbon sources into valuable bio-based products.
The project aims to establish sustainable alternatives to fossil-derived materials by combining advances in synthetic biology, fermentation and waste valorisation, helping accelerate Europe's transition towards greener manufacturing.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research with real-world environmental impact while working alongside leading academic and industrial collaborators across Europe.
What you would be doing You will undertake research within the Rodrigo Ledesma-Amaro Laboratory, contributing to the development of sustainable microbial cell factories for lipid production.
Engineering Yarrowia lipolytica using synthetic biology and metabolic engineering approaches.
Analysing experimental data and presenting findings at group meetings and scientific conferences.
Collaborating with researchers across the PROPEL consortium and contributing to project deliverables, publications and future grant applications.
What we are looking for Ph D (or equivalent) in Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Synthetic Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry or a related discipline.
Experience in molecular biology, microbial engineering or metabolic engineering.
Knowledge of synthetic biology, genome engineering or fermentation processes.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an international research environment.
What we can offer you Opportunity to work on research addressing sustainable food and biomanufacturing challenges A collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
As a member of research staff you have 10 development days to use to develop your skills and explore your career prospects Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
Further information This post is available immediately for up to 2 years in the first instance, with any extension subject to research funding.
Associate Research Fellow in London employer: Imperial College London
Imperial College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation within the International Relations Office. Employees benefit from professional growth opportunities, a commitment to diversity, and the chance to engage in meaningful projects that have a global impact, all set in the heart of one of the world's leading academic institutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Research Fellow in London
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
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If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Imperial College London. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Imperial College London!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Research Fellow in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Imperial College London that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Imperial College London.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Imperial College London does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Imperial College London. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Imperial College London's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Imperial College London. This shows your passion for the industry!
