At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to optimise high-throughput chemical synthesis for antibiotic discovery.
- Company: Imperial College London, leading research in antimicrobial resistance.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 41 days off, generous pension, and career support.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse teams and access state-of-the-art labs.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in combating global health threats with cutting-edge research.
- Qualifications: PhD in chemistry or related field, with experience in medicinal chemistry.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Following a £45 million pledge from GSK to support the Fleming Initiative’s efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), we are seeking a talented Research Associate to join the team in the group of Professor Ed Tate at Imperial College London. This role will use medicinal chemistry and high‑throughput direct‑to‑biology (D2B) approaches to rapidly synthesize large chemical libraries that will support the generation of high‑throughput mass spectrometry (MS) data to power state‑of‑the‑art Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) models to build a chemical ‘rule book’ for small molecule accumulation in bacteria.
The position is available full time, starting in June 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter). Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a significant and growing global health threat, with recent projections estimating that 39 million deaths will be directly attributed to AMR between 2025–2050. Of particular concern are Gram‑negative bacteria which possess two cell membranes, including a hard‑to‑penetrate outer membrane decorated with efficient efflux systems. These structural barriers severely limit intracellular accumulation of antibiotic drugs, rendering many ineffective. Despite a renewed focus on AMR research, there is still limited understanding of how to develop antibiotics that can cross these membranes and accumulate within bacteria. Therefore, a systematic, data‑driven approach is urgently needed to elucidate the chemical ‘rule book’ that determines small molecule penetration and accumulation in bacteria to guide rational design of next generation antibiotics.
What you would be doing
Your role will focus on optimising and delivering high‑throughput chemical synthesis workflows to enable direct‑to‑biology (D2B) screening of small‑molecule accumulation in Gram‑negative bacteria. By applying a high‑throughput D2B approach, you will rapidly elaborate and diversify chemical scaffolds to systematically interrogate the molecular features that govern Gram‑negative bacterial accumulation. The data generated from these experiments will feed into the development of state‑of‑the‑art Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) models to build a chemical ‘rule book’ for small molecule accumulation in bacteria. You will be contributing to a dynamic and ambitious Grand Challenge Project, funded by GSK and the Fleming Initiative, and you will work closely with multidisciplinary teams, from assay design and microbiology (Dr Andrew Edwards) to data science (Dr Marko Storch) and AI/ML (Prof. Alessandra Russo, Prof. Ramon Villar, Prof. Mauricio Barahona).
The Tate group is culturally diverse and highly multidisciplinary, with project teams encompassing scientists at all levels of experience and from a variety of backgrounds (chemical biology, cell biology, proteomics, cancer biology, drug discovery, etc.). Postdocs in our lab take full responsibility to initiate and run projects, co‑lead collaborative teams, write applications for funding and pitches for translational support, and regularly engage in co‑supervision of Masters and PhD level students. We are looking for candidates who can thrive in this dynamic and creative environment and take full advantage of the unique training opportunities it offers.
What we are looking for
- Hold, or near completion of, a PhD qualification in chemistry, chemical biology, medicinal chemistry, or a closely related field, or an equivalent level of experience.
- Strong research track record relative to experience, in academia and/or industry.
- Experience in optimisation and execution of D2B workflows, or medicinal chemistry.
Desirable experience for this role includes one or more of the following:
- Antimicrobial drug discovery;
- automated liquid handling;
- biological plate‑based assays;
- analysis of large datasets;
- working in a team setting and/or with external collaborators;
- handling biological samples (e.g. bacterial and human cell lines).
What we can offer you
Working within the Tate group would give you the opportunity to work with >60 scientists at all levels from undergraduates to postdoctoral researchers with our state‑of‑the‑art labs in West London. You will be joining a team with an excellent track record in the areas of antimicrobial resistance and drug discovery. 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. Sector‑leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
Further information
This is a full time, fixed term role for 12 months in the first instance, with possibility of extension. Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant. The expected start date for this position is as soon as possible.
Fleming Initiative Research Associate in High-Throughput Medicinal Chemistry in London employer: Imperial College London
Joining the Tate group at Imperial College London offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in antimicrobial resistance while working alongside a diverse team of over 60 scientists. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, exceptional career support, and a commitment to employee growth, this role not only promises meaningful work but also provides a supportive environment for professional development and collaboration in a world-leading institution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fleming Initiative Research Associate in High-Throughput Medicinal Chemistry in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the Fleming Initiative or antimicrobial resistance. Attend relevant events and engage on platforms like LinkedIn to make those valuable connections.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the latest research on antimicrobial resistance and high-throughput medicinal chemistry. Show us you’re not just familiar with the basics but are genuinely passionate about the field and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills in D2B workflows and medicinal chemistry can directly impact our mission. We want to see your enthusiasm and how you can fit into our dynamic team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Fleming Initiative Research Associate in High-Throughput Medicinal Chemistry in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in medicinal chemistry and high-throughput workflows. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or research!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about tackling antimicrobial resistance and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We’re all about collaboration here at StudySmarter. Highlight any experiences where you’ve worked in multidisciplinary teams or collaborated on projects. This will show us that you can thrive in our dynamic environment!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our community right from the start!
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Know Your Chemistry
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of medicinal chemistry and high-throughput workflows. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used in the past, especially those related to D2B approaches. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Show Your Passion for AMR
Antimicrobial resistance is a hot topic, so demonstrate your understanding of its significance. Share any relevant projects or research you've been involved in that relate to AMR. This will highlight your commitment to the field and align your goals with the mission of the Fleming Initiative.
✨Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working with multidisciplinary teams, be prepared to talk about your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others, especially in diverse settings. This will help convey that you can thrive in the dynamic environment of the Tate group.
✨Data-Driven Mindset
Given the emphasis on AI and ML in this role, be ready to discuss your experience with data analysis. Talk about any large datasets you've worked with and how you approached extracting meaningful insights. This will show that you can contribute to building the chemical 'rule book' effectively.
