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- Tasks: Join a team to innovate synthetic methods for oligonucleotides and heterobifunctional molecules.
- Company: Be part of a cutting-edge research initiative at the University of Strathclyde in collaboration with GSK.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, interdisciplinary collaboration, and opportunities for secondments at GSK.
- Why this job: Contribute to groundbreaking medicine development while working with top experts in chemistry and biology.
- Qualifications: PhD in synthetic chemistry or related fields; experience in protein modification and bioconjugation is a plus.
- Other info: Positions are fixed-term for four years, with a closing date for applications on 29/08/2025.
The predicted salary is between 33700 - 44200 £ per year.
The enablement of streamlined synthetic approaches to prepare ONs and heterobifunctionals, establishing a biophysical and biological evaluation platform, and generating datasets for the application in AI/ML methods to direct both synthesis and biology.
The Research Associates will be tasked with developing innovative synthetic methodology to prepare ONs alongside the development of new attachment conjugation chemistries to facilitate cell targeting, and explore new heterobifunctional modalities. The candidates appointed will be part of a team of 6 cross-discipline Research Associates supported by the award, and will form part of a wider network of PhD students based at Strathclyde and GSK whom are aligned with the programme.
The work will involve extensive collaboration between groups based in the Department of Pure & Applied Chemistry at Strathclyde led by the academics noted above. The positions will suit highly motivated synthetic chemists who have an immersion in biology or biologists who are eager to apply their synthetic expertise in the Chemistry-Biology-Data Analytics continuum towards the development of medicines of the future.
We would expect candidates to possess a PhD with significant exposure to synthetic chemistry (organic, biological, or medicinal). Expertise in the area of protein modification and bioconjugation, and experience in analysing biomolecules by HPLC, mass spectrometry, biophysical techniques (e.g., SPR), and/or NMR spectroscopy is particularly desirable. The position would require working closely with colleagues in GSK with opportunities to engage in secondments at their Stevenage site. This post is tenable for four years in total.
For any informal enquiries, please contact Professor Craig Jamieson (craig.jamieson@strath.ac.uk).
Closing date: 29/08/2025
Salary range: £37,694 – £46,049
FTE: 1.0 (35 hours/week)
Term: Fixed (30/09/2029)
Applications are invited for 5 Research Associates to work in the groups of Professors William Kerr, Glenn Burley, Nick Tomkinson and Craig Jamieson, and Drs David Lindsay and Rebecca Beveridge at the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow). The Glasgow-based Research Associates will form the core of a multi-disciplinary team of synthetic chemists, chemical biologists, and data scientists supported by a £3.9M EPSRC Prosperity Partnership Award centred around the development of next generation medicines beyond Lipinski space. This is a multi-year, collaborative endeavour with our industrial partner GSK, and has the overall objective of retooling the underpinning synthesis of oligonucleotides (ONs) and their derivatives, the development of platforms for cell targeting, and new approaches to heterobifunctional molecules. The roles will demand significant interdisciplinary working spanning
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Postdoctoral Research Associates in Oligonucleotide and Heterobifunctional Chemistry employer: University of Strathclyde
Contact Detail:
University of Strathclyde Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associates in Oligonucleotide and Heterobifunctional Chemistry
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of synthetic chemistry and bioconjugation. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet researchers from Strathclyde and GSK, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in oligonucleotide synthesis and heterobifunctional chemistry. Being well-versed in current research will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with online forums and communities focused on synthetic chemistry and bioconjugation. Sharing insights and asking questions can help you gain visibility and may even catch the attention of someone involved in the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, especially those related to protein modification and biophysical techniques. Highlighting specific projects and outcomes will showcase your expertise and fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associates in Oligonucleotide and Heterobifunctional Chemistry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in synthetic chemistry, bioconjugation, and any analytical techniques mentioned in the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your background to the role. Emphasise your motivation for working in a multi-disciplinary team and how your skills align with the objectives of the research programme.
Highlight Collaborative Experience: Since the position involves extensive collaboration, mention any previous experiences where you worked in teams, especially in interdisciplinary settings. This will show your ability to work effectively with others.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in HPLC, mass spectrometry, and other biophysical techniques. Providing evidence of your proficiency in these areas will strengthen your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Strathclyde
✨Showcase Your Synthetic Chemistry Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your previous work in synthetic chemistry, particularly any innovative methodologies you've developed. Highlight specific projects where you applied your skills in organic, biological, or medicinal chemistry.
✨Demonstrate Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with a multi-disciplinary team, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with professionals from different fields. Emphasise your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly to non-specialists.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Bioconjugation Techniques
Brush up on your knowledge of protein modification and bioconjugation. Be ready to discuss relevant techniques and how they can be applied to the development of new attachment conjugation chemistries for cell targeting.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to HPLC, mass spectrometry, and biophysical techniques like SPR and NMR spectroscopy. Review key concepts and be ready to explain how you've used these methods in your research.
