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- Tasks: Join a team investigating how ion channels sense temperature using cutting-edge research methods.
- Company: University of Bath, known for its collaborative and innovative research environment.
- Benefits: Generous leave, professional development, discounts, and a supportive workplace culture.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career growth and collaboration with leading researchers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biophysics while developing your computational skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and programming experience, preferably in Python.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.
An exciting opportunity is available for a research assistant to join a collaborative project investigating the molecular mechanisms of temperature sensing in ion channels, with a focus on the TRPM8 channel. The position is part of a Human Frontier Science Program award: “Understanding the molecular basis of animal cold thermosensation.” The project aims to understand how thermosensitive ion channels detect and respond to cold temperatures across species adapted to very different thermal environments.
The research uses molecular dynamics simulations of ion channels, together with analysis and interpretation of simulation data, to investigate how thermosensitive ion channels respond to temperature changes across different species. The project is a collaboration with leading experimental researchers in structural biology, electrophysiology, and evolutionary biology.
About You
- Hold (or be close to completing) a degree in a relevant discipline such as Chemistry, Physics, Biological Sciences, Engineering, or a related field.
- Have experience with programming, preferably in Python, and an interest in developing computational skills further.
- Be comfortable working with data analysis and scientific computing.
- Have some familiarity with computational or quantitative approaches applied to physical or biological systems (e.g. modelling, simulations, or data-driven research).
- Be willing to learn and apply computational methods to problems in biophysics, particularly related to membrane proteins.
- Have good problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a research team.
- Be willing to undertake occasional travel (typically once or twice per year) to attend consortium meetings with project partners.
Desirable (but Not Essential)
- Experience with molecular simulations, modelling, or related computational techniques.
- Familiarity with Unix/Linux environments or high-performance computing.
- Exposure to relevant software tools (e.g. molecular dynamics packages or data analysis libraries).
Further Information
As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year. This is a full-time fixed-term role (36.5 hours per week for 12 months) with an expected start date of October 2026.
For an informal discussion regarding the role please contact Professor Carmen Domene at mcdn20@bath.ac.uk.
What We Can Offer You
- Free counselling services through Health Assured
- Cycle to work scheme
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- Staff discount at Team Bath gym
- Staff discounts on postgraduate tuition fees
- Staff discount on language courses
- Generous employer contributory pension schemes
- Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days to enjoy a positive work life balance
- A wide range of personal and professional development opportunities including Apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning and more
- Free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath
- Local discounts and more
- A family-friendly workplace
- An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce
- Relocation allowance
- Visa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with the cost of some immigration expenses
Terms and Conditions of Employment
Right to Work in the UK: We do not assess immigration or right to work status until offer stage. Being invited to interview does not guarantee you are eligible for visa sponsorship and all offers are conditional on meeting right to work requirements. Further information is available on our application support webpage.
Anonymous shortlisting: We are constantly seeking to reduce the unconscious bias that enters any assessment process, with the goal of creating an inclusive and equal assessment process. To support this, personal details such as your name may be removed from application forms at the initial shortlisting stage.
Research Assistant employer: University of Bath
Contact Detail:
University of Bath Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of research, especially those who might know about the TRPM8 channel or similar projects. A friendly chat can lead to insider info and even recommendations that could give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you've got experience with Python or data analysis, be ready to discuss specific projects or challenges you've tackled. We want to see how you think and solve problems, so come prepared with examples that highlight your computational prowess.
✨Tip Number 3
Be curious and ask questions! During interviews or networking events, don’t hesitate to inquire about the research team's current projects or methodologies. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 4
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 the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background in Chemistry, Physics, or Biological Sciences aligns with the research assistant role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the project and how your programming skills, especially in Python, can contribute to our understanding of temperature sensing in ion channels.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous projects. We love seeing candidates who can think critically and work independently, as well as collaboratively within a team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bath
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on the molecular mechanisms of temperature sensing, especially regarding the TRPM8 channel. Familiarise yourself with relevant concepts in biophysics and how they relate to your potential role. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the project.
✨Show Off Your Coding Skills
Since programming in Python is a key requirement, be prepared to discuss your experience with it. Bring examples of past projects or simulations you've worked on, and if possible, demonstrate your problem-solving approach to coding challenges related to data analysis.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Questions
As this role involves collaboration with various researchers, think about your past experiences working in teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you contributed to group projects, resolved conflicts, or supported your colleagues in achieving common goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the project or the team dynamics. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your career aspirations and values.