At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research on bioenergetic supercomplexes and their role in electron transfer.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield's leading biosciences team with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for personal and career development.
- Other info: Collaborate internationally and publish findings in high-impact journals.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in life sciences while developing cutting-edge research skills.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in biochemistry, biophysics, or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 43482 £ per year.
An opportunity is available for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join Professor Matt Johnson’s group within the School of Biosciences at the University of Sheffield. This three-year, BBSRC-funded project investigates how bioenergetic supercomplexes promote electron transfer in respiration and photosynthesis.
Electron transfer reactions in mitochondria, chloroplasts, and bacteria sustain virtually all life on Earth, yet a central mystery has persisted regarding why many membrane complexes involved cluster into larger supercomplexes and what specific advantages these assemblies confer. The research group recently developed a novel single-molecule atomic force microscopy (smAFM) approach capable of resolving the fleeting encounter complexes that precede successful electron transfer. Preliminary data suggest that supercomplexes enhance the formation of these encounter complexes.
The successful candidate will lead the experimental programme testing this hypothesis across bacterial, mitochondrial, and chloroplast systems. Key responsibilities include:
- Combining smAFM with mass photometry, microscale thermophoresis, and spectroscopy;
- Designing site-directed mutants to dissect the molecular basis of supercomplex function;
- Engineering artificial supercomplexes in Chlamydomonas using CRISPR-Cas9.
The role involves working closely with international collaborators who contribute structural biology, molecular dynamics, and biochemical expertise. The postholder will join one of the leading photosynthesis and bioenergetics research environments in the UK, benefiting from the multi-million-pound Imagine: Imaging Life facility which provides on-site atomic force, confocal, and cryo-electron microscopy.
The position offers an opportunity to develop skills across single-molecule biophysics, membrane protein biochemistry, synthetic biology, and computational structural biology, working at the interface of fundamental discovery and translational application in food security and clean growth. Findings will be published in high-impact journals and presented at major international meetings.
The University of Sheffield offers employee benefits including a competitive annual leave entitlement (with options to purchase additional leave), a pension scheme, flexible working options, personal and career development opportunities, and retail discount programs.
Eligibility Criteria
A PhD (or close to completion / equivalent postdoctoral work experience) in biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, plant sciences, microbiology, or a closely related discipline.
Required expertise/skills
- Substantial practical experience in protein biochemistry, including the purification and biochemical characterisation of membrane proteins or large multi-subunit protein complexes.
- Demonstrated experience with one or more biophysical methods for quantifying protein-protein interactions (e.g., atomic force microscopy, mass photometry, microscale thermophoresis, surface plasmon resonance, or fluorescence-based techniques).
- Ability to lead an experimental research programme, collaborate with international teams, and contribute to scientific publications and presentations.
Salary details: £38,784 to £43,482 per annum.
Research Associate Bioenergetics and Single-Molecule Biophysics in Sheffield employer: RFCSR
Imperial College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and interdisciplinary research. As a Research Associate, you will have access to cutting-edge facilities and the opportunity for professional growth through mentorship and publishing your findings, all while contributing to impactful advancements in biomedical engineering within a prestigious academic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate Bioenergetics and Single-Molecule Biophysics in Sheffield
✨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!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
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 RFCSR. 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 RFCSR!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate Bioenergetics and Single-Molecule Biophysics in Sheffield
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 RFCSR 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 RFCSR.
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 RFCSR 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 RFCSR
✨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 RFCSR. 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 RFCSR'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 RFCSR. This shows your passion for the industry!
