Join to apply for the Research Associate (Molecular Biology) role at The University of Sheffield.
Salary: £38,784 – £47,389 per annum.
Overview
The laboratory of Professor Matt Johnson in the School of Biosciences seeks a Research Associate to work on a collaborative project funded by a BBSRC award. The aims of the project are to characterise the structural and functional properties of a range of engineered algal strains containing modified photosynthetic complexes using a variety of biophysical and spectroscopic methods; purify native and engineered protein complexes involved in photosynthesis; and use cryo‑electron microscopy to determine their high‑resolution structures, including grid preparation, data analysis and model building.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
* Characterise the structural and functional properties of a range of engineered algal strains containing modified photosynthetic complexes using a variety of biophysical and spectroscopic methods; purify a range of native and engineered protein complexes involved in photosynthesis; use cryo‑electron microscopy to determine the high‑resolution structures of these complexes, using the latest approaches at all stages, including making grids, data analysis and model building.
* Solve problems regarding the optimised production and purification of photosynthetic membrane protein complexes, from a range of bacterial and plant sources.
* Biochemical characterisation of designed complexes using gel electrophoresis, western blots, sucrose ultracentrifugation, gel filtration.
* Characterise these samples functionally using fluorescence, fluorescence lifetime imaging and absorption spectroscopy.
* Collaborate with senior colleagues to prepare papers for journals and presentations for national and international conferences.
* Interact with and supervise PhD students within the research group.
* Plan experimental tasks up to 3 weeks ahead, with planning range 1 week to 3 months depending on availability of materials, space and microscopes.
* Keep appropriate records of all work carried out.
* Develop new collaborations both within the University of Sheffield and with external groups.
* Encourage ethical decisions in the role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into working activities wherever possible.
* Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected.
Essential Criteria
* A PhD or equivalent experience with a relevant scientific background such as biochemistry, biophysics or chemistry.
* Hold general biochemistry skills, including preparation of membrane proteins by sucrose gradients, purification of cytochromes and photosynthetic complexes by ion exchange and size exclusion chromatography, FPLC, etc.
* Have extensive experience of cryo‑electron microscopy, image analysis, and a relevant computational background.
* Ability to manage an independent, original research project.
* Effective communication skills, both verbal and written; experience of delivering presentations and writing papers.
* Ability to analyse and solve problems with an appreciation of longer‑term implications.
* Ability to assess and organise resources, and plan and progress work activities.
* Experience of developing collaborations.
* Experience of working in a large and diverse research team.
* Have experience of analytical gel electrophoresis such as SDS PAGE and BN PAGE.
Desirable Criteria
* Experience of adapting own skills to new circumstances.
Benefits
* A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holidays and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
* Generous pension scheme.
* A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
* A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (e.g., Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
* Recognition awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
* A commitment to your development: access to learning and mentoring schemes.
* A range of generous family‑friendly policies:
o Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
o Support for those going through menopause
o Paid time off and support for fertility treatment
o and more
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job, you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Closing Date: 07/12/2025
Grade: 7
Work arrangement: Full‑time
Duration: 1 January 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter) for 33 months
Line manager: Principal Investigator (Professor of Biochemistry)
Direct reports: None
Our website: School of Biosciences
For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Amanda Brindley (Research Project Coordinator) at a.brindley@sheffield.ac.uk
Next steps: Selection process will take place in the weeks following the closing date. Candidates will be notified within two weeks of the closing date. If shortlisted, any support, equipment or adjustments required to participate in the recruitment process can be requested at bioscienceshradmin@sheffield.ac.uk.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our vision: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision
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