At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research on bioenergetic supercomplexes using cutting-edge techniques.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield's dynamic School of Biosciences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate with international experts and access state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cellular energy conversion and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in biochemistry, biophysics, or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 43482 - 43482 £ per year.
Are you a creative biochemist or biophysicist who is excited by the prospect of tackling one of the longest-standing puzzles in cellular energy conversion? We have a remarkable opportunity to join Professor Matt Johnson's group in the School of Biosciences at the University of Sheffield as a Postdoctoral Research Associate, working on a three-year BBSRC-funded project that investigates how bioenergetic supercomplexes promote electron transfer in respiration and photosynthesis.
Our group recently developed a novel single-molecule atomic force microscopy (smAFM) approach that, for the first time, resolves the fleeting 'encounter' complexes that precede successful electron transfer. Our preliminary data suggest that supercomplexes enhance the formation of these encounter complexes, reframing how we understand these essential processes.
You will lead the experimental programme that tests this hypothesis across bacterial, mitochondrial, and chloroplast systems. You will combine smAFM with mass photometry, microscale thermophoresis, and spectroscopy; design site-directed mutants to dissect the molecular basis of supercomplex function; and engineer artificial supercomplexes in Chlamydomonas using CRISPR-Cas9. You will also work closely with international collaborators who contribute structural biology, molecular dynamics, and biochemical expertise.
You will join one of the leading photosynthesis and bioenergetics research environments in the UK. The School of Biosciences at the University of Sheffield is home to a thriving community of biophysicists, structural biologists, plant scientists, and microbiologists, and the multi-million-pound Imagine: Imaging Life facility provides state-of-the-art atomic force, confocal, and cryo-electron microscopy on site. Bioenergetics is a strategic priority of the School, and you will benefit from extensive institutional support for facilities, training, and career development.
Applicants must have a PhD (or be close to completion / have equivalent postdoctoral work experience) in biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, plant sciences, microbiology, or a closely related discipline. Substantial practical experience in protein biochemistry, including the purification and biochemical characterisation of membrane proteins or large multi-subunit protein complexes along with experience of one or more biophysical methods for quantifying protein-protein interactions, for example atomic force microscopy, mass photometry, microscale thermophoresis, surface plasmon resonance, or fluorescence-based techniques are also essential.
This is an outstanding opportunity to develop your 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, supporting your transition to research independence.
The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do and their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university. We offer a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pension scheme, flexible working, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, retail discounts and more.
We are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and the University. We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.
£38,784 to £43,482 per annum
Research Associate (Bioenergetics and Single-Molecule Biophysics) employer: University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield offers an exceptional environment for PhD candidates, particularly in the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, where cutting-edge research in machine learning and autonomous systems thrives. With a fully funded studentship that includes a generous tax-free stipend, students benefit from access to modern facilities and collaborative opportunities with leading experts at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory. The supportive work culture fosters innovation and personal growth, making it an ideal place for aspiring researchers to develop their skills and contribute to impactful projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (Bioenergetics and Single-Molecule Biophysics)
✨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 University of Sheffield. 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 University of Sheffield!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (Bioenergetics and Single-Molecule Biophysics)
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 University of Sheffield 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 University of Sheffield.
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 University of Sheffield 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 University of Sheffield
✨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 University of Sheffield. 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 University of Sheffield'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 University of Sheffield. This shows your passion for the industry!
