Postdoctoral Research Associate in Medicinal & Organic Chemistry in Manchester

Manchester Metropolitan University is seeking to recruit a talented and motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate (18 months, grade 7) to join the Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology (MCCB) group, contributing to an ambitious research programme focused on the design and synthesis of small molecules for targeted protein degradation. This is an exciting opportunity to conduct cutting‑edge research at the interface of synthetic organic chemistry and chemical biology, in a collaborative and forward‑thinking academic environment.

About The Role

This position is funded by a prestigious Academy of Medical Sciences Springboard Award held by Dr Tom Britten. You will play a central role in the design, synthesis, and characterisation of novel small molecule degraders, applying advanced synthetic and analytical techniques to generate high‑quality compounds for biological evaluation. Working closely with senior academics, you will take ownership of key elements of the research programme, contributing to experimental design, problem‑solving, and the delivery of impactful scientific outputs. You will also support the wider research environment through the supervision and mentorship of undergraduate and postgraduate students, dissemination of findings through peer‑reviewed publications and conferences, and active contribution to group meetings and collaborative partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute multi‑step synthetic routes toward novel small molecules
• Perform thorough characterisation of synthetic compounds using standard analytical techniques including NMR spectroscopy, HRMS, and LCMS
• Analyse and interpret chemical and biological data, producing high‑quality research outputs
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and postgraduate students within the MCCB group
• Present findings at national and international conferences and seminars, and prepare manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals
• Liaise with internal and external collaborators, including biological screening partners and shared analytical facilities
• Contribute to the development of research proposals and funding applications where appropriate

About You

• A PhD in synthetic organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or a closely related discipline (or be close to completion)
• Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry, including multi‑step synthesis route design, optimisation and experience of air‑ and moisture‑sensitive techniques
• Strong competence in analytical characterisation methods, including NMR spectroscopy, HRMS, and LCMS
• Experience contributing to research projects and disseminating findings through publications or presentations
• The ability to work independently and manage your own experimental programme, while contributing effectively to a team environment
• You will be a collaborative and supportive colleague, comfortable working within a dynamic, open laboratory environment shared across multiple research groups, encompassing a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds and levels of experience.
• Experience of supervising students, working at the chemistry‑biology interface, or contributing to funding applications would be advantageous.

Why Join Us?

At Manchester Met, you'll be part of a vibrant research community with a strong commitment to innovation, collaboration, and real‑world impact. We offer a supportive environment that encourages professional development and career progression.

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter (of no more than 2 pages) via our application portal. For informal enquiries about the role, please contact Dr Tom Britten directly – t.britten@mmu.ac.uk.

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals. We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support. Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups. Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.