We are seeking
a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join Prof Molly Stevens’s lab at the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with strong expertise in organic/polymer chemistry who is also a confident self-starter, a collaborative team player, and demonstrate a proven track record of first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals. In this role, you will be responsible for the design and synthesis of materials of a library of lipid-like polymers (lipidoids) to be used in nanoparticle formulations for nucleic acid delivery. This post is available immediately for a fixed-term until 31st July 2027, with the possibility of part-time appointments being considered. Key responsibilities:
1. Develop a library of hybrid polymer- and lipid nanoparticles and design functionalisation strategies for targeted drug delivery.
2. Use state-of-the-art nanomaterial characterisation techniques including cryo-TEM, DLS, SANS/SAXS and the in-house developed single particle Raman spectroscopy technique SPARTA.
3. Establish cross-disciplinary protocols to incorporate the materials into biomedical applications in collaboration with other members of the research team.
4. Manage your own research activities, including administrative tasks associated with the project.
5. Actively participate in the multidisciplinary environment of the Stevens Group and collaborate with external research groups.
Selection criteria:
6. Hold, or be near to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in chemistry, materials science, nanotechnology, or related field
7. Experience in multi-step organic synthesis, purification and standard chemical characterisation techniques (e.g. NMR, LC-MS)
8. Experience in the synthesis of polymer/lipid nanoparticles for applications in therapeutic deliver
9. Experience in nanoparticle characterisation techniques
10. Proven track record of first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals.
11. Ability to work independently and manage your own research and administrative tasks.
12. Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
What we offer: Your wellbeing at work matters, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:
13. An excellent contributory pension scheme
14. 38 days annual leave
15. A comprehensive range of childcare services
16. Family leave schemes
17. Cycle and electric car loan schemes
18. Employee Assistance Programme
19. Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
20. Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
While this is a full-time role, we welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.