The Role
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Assistant/Associate in Biomaterials to join Dr Ana Ferreira-Duarte’s group as part of a recently awarded European Commission project. The project aims to develop and manufacture advanced biomaterials and hydrogels using different chemistries, including bioorthogonal click chemistries, to create nanosystems and multifunctional smart carriers from natural-derived polymers.
You will work in an interdisciplinary environment spanning biomaterials formulation, nanoscale processing, and biological assessment. They will be responsible for designing and characterising new biomaterial systems, studying their biological and immunological response, and processing them into nano/micro-carriers for regenerative engineering applications.
You will also contribute actively to dissemination activities, including scientific publications, conference presentations, and engagement with industrial and academic partners. This is an exciting opportunity to join a thriving research environment and play a key role in growing an internationally visible regenerative engineering team.
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For full details about this vacancy and essential information on how to apply, visit our Job Vacancies web page at. To apply, please complete the online application form, upload your CV, and provide a supporting statement demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria.
This is a fixed term post for the duration of 24 months.
For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Ana Ferreira-Duarte ().
Key accountabilties
1. Develop and optimise biomaterials and hydrogel formulations exploiting biorthogonal and click chemistries
2. Design, synthesise, and characterise polymer-based nanosystems and multifunctional smart carriers
3. Perform physicochemical, mechanical, cellular and immunological evaluation of biomaterials
4. Carry out biological assessment of materials in in-vitro tissue culture systems
5. Collaborate with academic and industrial partners across the EC consortium
6. Disseminate research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and reports
7. Contribute to the supervision of PhD and MSc students and foster a collaborative, inclusive research culture
8. Manage time effectively to meet project milestones and reporting deadlines
The Person
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
9. PhD (or close to completion) in Biomaterials, Bioengineering, Tissue Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, or a related discipline
10. First or upper-second-class undergraduate degree in Materials Science, Engineering, Chemistry, or related subject
11. Strong experience in biomaterials formulation and characterisation
12. Practical experience with hydrogel systems and natural-derived polymers
13. Experience in tissue culture and biological assessment of biomaterials
14. Ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally, with evidence of scientific dissemination (published or submitted several first-author peer-reviewed scientific papers, presentations)
15. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
16. Strong organisational and time-management skills
Desirable
17. Experience in polymeric chemistries such as biorthogonal click chemistry (e.g. SPAAC)
18. Experience with nano- or micro-carrier fabrication and characterisation
19. Knowledge and experience in operating Atomic Force Microscope (e.g. Bio-AFM) and other microscope methods
20. Understanding of biomaterial–immune system interactions
21. Knowledge of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering applications
22. Evidence of engagement with industry or interdisciplinary collaborations
Attributes and Behaviour
23. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across disciplines
24. Commitment to teamwork, inclusivity, and a supportive research culture
25. Proactive approach to problem solving and ability to innovate
26. Enthusiasm for research excellence and ambition to contribute to group growth
Qualifications
27. PhD awarded (or near completion for appointment at Research Assistant) in a relevant subject such as Biomaterials, Bioengineering, polymeric chemistry or related discipline
Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.
We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.
At Newcastle University we hold a gold award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality. We also hold a Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC. We are a employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme.
In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe.
Requisition ID: 28715