Research Assistant (Fixed term, Part time)

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant (RA) to work on an exciting project involving the development of fungal biofilms for various applications including waste valorisation and the design of novel biomaterials. We welcome applications from everyone and value the varied perspectives and experiences that a diverse team can bring. We are particularly keen to receive applications from underrepresented groups in Engineering and Science.

This role is offered on a part-time basis for 15 hours/week for 6 months. Work hours are flexible and can be managed by the RA based on weekly activities.  

You will be based in the Food, Water, Waste (FWW) research group within the department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering and work closely with the Principal Investigator (PI), Dr Asma Ahmed. In this project, you will cultivate fungal biofilms on a variety of waste streams, and characterise the waste streams, products, and biofilms. You will use analytical techniques including, but not limited to, chromatography, spectrometry, biochemical assays, and microscopy.

You will have a Master’s Degree, or equivalent in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or relevant subject area. You will be experienced in working with microorganisms and be able to culture and maintain a variety of microbial species using the aseptic technique. You will be experienced in, or have the aptitude to learn analytical techniques involving chromatography, spectrometry, and microscopy.  

You will be self-motivated and be able to plan and execute experiments, collect and analyse data, and summarise experiments in brief reports and presentations. You will be proactive in organising tasks and activities, coordinating with other departments for sample analysis or use of equipment, and communicating updates and any issues to the PI. You will have excellent oral and written communication skills and will be able to present your work in the form of presentations, posters, and journal publications, in collaboration with other researchers and the PI.

You will work alongside other PhD students and research associates from the FWW group and will be able to coordinate the use of common equipment and spaces with ease. You will be a team player and be able to work seamlessly across disciplinary boundaries and with diverse individuals. As the PI’s team grows, you will actively participate in training incoming PhD students/research associates on various laboratory techniques.

In this role, you will be part of an interdisciplinary research group aiming to deliver sustainable and resilient solutions to global challenges. You will have access to excellent facilities and equipment not just within the department, but also across the faculty and other parts of the University including the nano and microscale Research Centre (nmRC).

To understand more about our application process, please visit the University of Nottingham Candidate Guidance.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Asma Ahmed by emailing asma.ahmed@nottingham.ac.uk Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

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