At a Glance
- Tasks: Support cutting-edge research in protein design and engineering through computational and experimental methods.
- Company: Join the University of Manchester's dynamic Faculty of Science and Engineering.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in innovative protein engineering projects using machine learning.
- Qualifications: Experience in protein engineering and proficiency in scripting tools like Python.
The predicted salary is between 33002 - 36636 £ per year.
We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Senior Technician (Protein Design & Engineering) within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, based at the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB). This role offers an exciting opportunity to support cutting‑edge research by integrating computational protein design and wet‑lab experimentation. Working within a dynamic technical operations environment, you will contribute to projects focused on engineering enzymes using machine learning‑driven approaches, alongside experimental validation through protein production and characterisation. This is a full‑time (35 hours per week), fixed‑term role for 12 months, based at the University of Manchester. You will play a key role in supporting multidisciplinary research, working closely with academic staff, technical specialists and researchers to develop and deliver innovative solutions in protein engineering.
Responsibilities
- Supporting and developing computational protein design workflows, including machine‑learning based approaches
- Producing, purifying and characterising protein variants using biochemical and biophysical techniques
- Performing enzyme assays and analysing results to validate in silico predictions
- Applying data analysis and scripting tools (e.g. Python, structural biology tools) to process and interpret datasets
- Maintaining robust data management practices, including shared databases and electronic lab notebooks
About You
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:
Essential Criteria
- Experience in protein engineering, including molecular biology, protein expression and purification
- Experience using computational approaches for protein design or analysis (e.g. molecular dynamics, structure‑based methods)
- Proficiency in scripting and analysis tools (e.g. Python, PyMOL or similar)
- Ability to integrate computational outputs with experimental workflows
- Excellent organisational, communication and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
Desirable Criteria
- Experience with machine learning‑based protein design tools
- Experience working across multiple expression systems or with engineered microbial strains
- Experience contributing to research outputs or collaborating with industrial partners
- Experience delivering training or supporting teaching in a laboratory environment
Benefits
- Generous employer pension contribution
- Christmas closure in addition to annual leave and bank holidays
- Access to training and professional development opportunities
We value technical innovation, collaboration and a commitment to high‑quality, reproducible research as much as formal qualifications. This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate the right to work in the UK.
Senior Technician (Protein Design & Engineering) in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester offers an exceptional work environment for the Senior Technician (Protein Design & Engineering) role, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Employees benefit from generous pension contributions, a Christmas closure in addition to annual leave, and ample opportunities for professional development, all while contributing to groundbreaking research at the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology. This position not only allows for personal growth but also encourages engagement with multidisciplinary teams, making it a rewarding place to advance your career in protein engineering.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technician (Protein Design & Engineering) in Manchester
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technician (Protein Design & Engineering) in Manchester
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 The University of Manchester 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 The University of Manchester.
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 The University of Manchester 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 The University of Manchester
✨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 The University of Manchester. 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.
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