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- Tasks: Join a team to engineer synthetic cells that harness energy and innovate in molecular biology.
- Company: Imperial College London, a leading institution in chemical and synthetic biology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 39 days off, generous pension, and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research while collaborating internationally.
- Qualifications: PhD in Chemistry, Bioengineering, or related field; expertise in synthetic biology is essential.
- Other info: Dynamic, inclusive environment with opportunities for research visits to Japan.
The predicted salary is between 43863 - 47223 £ per year.
Imperial College London is seeking a Research Associate to join an international collaborative project focused on developing synthetic cells with energy-harnessing capabilities. The successful candidate will work under supervision within the Elani group. The project aims to engineer artificial cells that can capture energy from their surroundings, convert it between different forms, and release it in a controlled and programmable manner. This work will involve both genetic-level engineering—using molecular biology and cell-free protein expression systems—and membrane-level design, including the integration of functional biomembranes and membrane proteins.
We are looking for candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- biomembrane engineering
- microfluidics
- membrane protein design and reconstitution
- molecular biology
- cell-free protein expression
This project is part of a unique trans-continental collaboration between Imperial College (UK) and Institute of Science Tokyo (Japan). You will form part of a multi-disciplinary team and there will be extensive opportunities for visits and placements in Japan.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Taking initiatives in the planning of your research
- Helping to direct the work of small research teams within the Elani group, including undergraduate and postgraduate students
- Identifying and developing new soft matter, chemical biology and/or synthetic biology technologies to build synthetic cells
- Managing the day-to-day operations of the Elani group
- Working with collaborators at Imperial to complete project objectives
- Preparing publications for submission to refereed journals
- Attending relevant workshops/conferences as well as research visits to our project collaborators in the UK and abroad
You must hold a PhD in Chemistry, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience. Multi-disciplinary expertise in one or more of the following areas is essential:
- chemical biology
- synthetic biology
- instrumentation
- soft matter
- biophysics
This post offers an excellent opportunity for academic career advancement in Europe’s number one hub for chemical biology and synthetic biology. Imperial College’s synthetic biology facilities are second-to-none and include the fabriCELL centre for artificial cell research and the Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology.
The post also offers:
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity
- Access to Imperial’s sector-leading resources as well as opportunities for promotion and progression
- Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes)
- A diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various resources to support your personal and professional development
*Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant within the salary range £43,863 – £47,223 per annum.
Research Associate in Synthetic Cell Design and Construction in London employer: Imperial College London
Contact Detail:
Imperial College London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Synthetic Cell Design and Construction in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Imperial College or similar projects. Attend conferences and workshops to meet potential collaborators and mentors who can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your expertise in biomembrane engineering, microfluidics, or any relevant area. This will give you an edge during interviews and show that you're ready to contribute from day one.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to the Elani group or other teams at Imperial College to express your interest and see if there are any upcoming projects where you could fit in.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to advance science for humanity.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Synthetic Cell Design and Construction in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Associate. Highlight your expertise in biomembrane engineering, molecular biology, or any relevant experience that aligns with the job description. We want to see how your skills fit into our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about synthetic cell design 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 Research Experience: Don’t forget to include details about your previous research projects, especially those related to synthetic biology or chemical biology. We’re looking for candidates who can take initiative and contribute to our innovative projects, so let us know what you've done!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our awesome team at Imperial College!
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in synthetic biology and related fields. Familiarise yourself with the specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like biomembrane engineering and cell-free protein expression. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your expertise and enthusiasm.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working within a multi-disciplinary team, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight any experiences where you’ve directed research teams or worked with students, as this will demonstrate your leadership potential and teamwork skills.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the project, the team dynamics, and opportunities for collaboration with the Institute of Science Tokyo. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll be preparing publications and possibly presenting at conferences, practice explaining your research clearly and concisely. You might be asked to present your previous work, so make sure you can do this in an engaging way that highlights your contributions and findings.
