Research Associate

Location: Birmingham

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £27,924 to £30,497, with potential progression once in post to £34,304

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract up to 5 years

Closes: 30th November 2021

Job Ref: 98076

Role/Project Background

The research group to which the post is associated uses integrative structural biology to understand functional mechanisms of proteins, nucleic acids and their complexes. The Research Associate will express and purify functional proteins, produce nucleic acids either by in vitro transcription or chemical synthesis, reconstitute large biomolecular particles from recombinant material, study the biomolecular complexes with biophysical and biochemical experiments and establish functional tests in vitro. The material produced and studied by the Research Associate will then be used for structural biology experiments. The day-to-day work includes cloning, bacterial cell culture, protein expression and purification, RNA transcription and purification, RNA and protein engineering, biophysical studies of biomolecules and of their mutual interactions, for example through Isothermal Titration Calorimetry, Multiple Angle Light Scattering and Electrophoretic Mobility Assays. In addition, the RA will help with laboratory management tasks.

Main duties

• Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation (as described above) and literature reviews
• Analyse research data as directed
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods
• Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research
• Promote equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification

• Degree or equivalent in Biochemistry, Biophysics or Molecular Biology
• Proficiency in protein recombinant expression and purification and/or in RNA synthesis and purification
• Practical experience in a biochemical laboratory
• Experience in some of the biophysical techniques mentioned above
• Skills in analysing data
• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively
• Ability to access and organise resources successfully
• 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

To download the details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the Apply Online button below, please quote the appropriate Job Ref in all enquiries, alternatively information can be obtained from http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/jobs/index.aspx

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment

We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working