At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research in integrative structural biology and analyse complex biomolecular structures.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham's School of Biosciences, a leader in innovative research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential progression, and support for visa applications.
- Other info: Dynamic research environment with opportunities for career growth and international collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in understanding protein functions and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and proficiency in NMR spectroscopy or electron microscopy required.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 € per year.
Position Details
School of Biosciences
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822.
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to September 2028.
Closing date: 15th June 2026.
There are 4 positions available. This vacancy may be closed early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.
Background
Applications are welcomed from candidates in Europe and other overseas countries. Financial support for visa application fees is available, subject to eligibility and organisational policy.
There are Post-doc (Research Fellow) positions available in the field of integrative structural biology, based in the group of Prof. Teresa Carlomagno at the University of Birmingham. The research group studies the functional mechanisms of proteins, including intrinsically disordered proteins, nucleic acids and their complexes by integrative structural biology. The laboratory uses and develops high-field NMR spectroscopy methods as a major structural biology tool, in combination with several other techniques.
The Research Fellow will work in one of the following fields: RNA metabolism, regulation of gene expression, DNA repair, signalling. The post holder will use NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography and/or Electron Microscopy, as well as Mass Spectrometry and Small Angle Scattering, to study the structure of protein–protein or protein–nucleic acids complexes and discover the mechanisms of their function and regulation. There are opportunities to develop new approaches to integrative structural biology with the combination of the techniques mentioned above. In addition, the Research Fellow will use molecular biology, biophysical and biochemical techniques to characterize biomolecular complexes and their activity in vitro and cellular biology approaches to verify the functional mechanisms in vivo.
Role Summary
- Operate within area of specialism
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results
- Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids
- Contribute to public understanding of the discipline or similar.
Main Duties
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, in the area of interest of the hosting laboratory (Prof T Carlomagno)
- Acquire, analyse and interpret data - structural biology, biochemical and biophysical data
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Undertake management/administration arising from research
- Contribute to Departmental/Institute research-related activities and research-related administration
- Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
- Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation and literature reviews
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
- Promote equality and value diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.
Person Specification
- PhD (or near to completion) in Biophysics/ Biochemistry/ Chemical Biology/ Structural Biology or related areas or equivalent qualifications
- Proficiency in either biomolecular NMR spectroscopy or single-particle electron microscopy, both in data acquisition and analysis
- Practical experience in a biochemical laboratory and/or handling nucleic acids
- High level analytical capability
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly
- Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
- Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
- Willingness to work in a competitive, international environment
The University of Birmingham is an equal opportunities employer and promotes diversity and inclusion.
Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) - School of Biosciences - 107374 - Grade 7 employer: University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers an exceptional work environment for Research Fellows in the School of Biosciences, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. With access to cutting-edge facilities and a commitment to employee development, staff are encouraged to pursue their research interests while contributing to impactful scientific discoveries. Located in the vibrant Edgbaston area, employees benefit from a supportive community that values diversity and inclusion, making it an ideal place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) - School of Biosciences - 107374 - Grade 7
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Birmingham, especially in the School of Biosciences. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the research group’s work. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and projects. This shows genuine interest and helps us stand out during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present your research ideas or findings. We can help each other by doing mock presentations to boost our confidence and clarity.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we can keep track of deadlines and updates easily that way.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) - School of Biosciences - 107374 - Grade 7
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Fellow position. Highlight your relevant experience in integrative structural biology and any specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like NMR spectroscopy or electron microscopy.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In your application, emphasise your analytical capabilities and any previous research projects you've worked on. We want to see how you can contribute to our understanding of protein mechanisms and your ability to communicate complex information clearly.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your qualifications and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you're a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that we receive all your details correctly and helps us keep track of your application efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in integrative structural biology, especially around NMR spectroscopy and other techniques mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss your previous research and how it relates to the work of Prof. Teresa Carlomagno will show your genuine interest and fit for the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your technical skills, particularly in biomolecular NMR spectroscopy or electron microscopy. Brush up on your data acquisition and analysis techniques, and be ready to explain complex concepts clearly, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This position involves working with others, so be prepared to discuss your experience in collaborative projects. Highlight any instances where you’ve successfully supervised students or contributed to team efforts, as this will demonstrate your ability to work within a research group.
✨Engage with Broader Impacts
The role requires contributing to public understanding and enterprise activities. Think about how your research can benefit the wider community and be ready to share ideas on how you would engage with the public or contribute to business development initiatives.
