Fixed Term – Full time
(initially 12 months with possibility of extension)
The Opportunity
This role offers an exciting opportunity for someone ambitious to join the groups of Dr Sebastian Cosgrove and Prof Gavin Miller at Keele University. We have an open position for a research associate in carbohydrate chemical biology. This role will form part of the innovative BBSRC EnzAct Prosperity Partnership with Unilever. As part of its Clean Future strategy, Unilever aims to re-design surfactants and polymers from bio-based feedstocks, and to explore their potential applications and manufacture. The post will form part of this new partnership alongside Unilever, UCL, and the Universities of Manchester and Liverpool. Its focus will be in carbohydrate chemical biology, involving the enzymatic synthesis of functional oligomer sequences.
Applicants should have a PhD (or have submitted their thesis prior to taking up the appointment) in chemical biology, biocatalysis or biochemistry. Experience with multi-step/pot enzyme-based synthesis routes and microbiology techniques is highly desirable. We seek applications from experienced researchers with a proven track record in the above areas. Applicants must have excellent communication skills, an ability to work independently, and have an organised approach to research management. The candidate must also be willing to work across a multidisciplinary project and team, with attendance and presentation at project meetings involving collaborators expected.
The post is available for 12 months initially but with the possibility of extension. The successful candidate may also be expected to undertake research secondments as an essential component of the Partnership program. The role will involve supervision of PhD and Masters-level students.
If you're passionate about collaborative research and contributing to the development of the Centre for Glycoscience at Keele, we encourage you to apply.
The University
Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £170 million, over 12,500 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research. Further information can be found at
Keele University values equality and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.
OH Please note this appointment is subject to medical clearance by the University’s Occupational Health provider.
How to Apply
For full post details and to find out more about working at Keele please visit:
For informal enquiries may be addressed to the supervisory team: Dr Sebastian Cosgrove – s.cosgrove@keele.ac.uk Applications to this address will not be accepted or Professor Gavin Miller – g.j.miller.ac.uk Applications to this address will not be accepted.
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