Research Assistant in Microbiology and Bioprocessing

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Contract Type: Fixed Term (30/09/2025) 

Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Tuesday 29 October 2024

Interview Date: To be confirmed

You are invited to apply for a Research Assistant (RA) position to join our BBSRC-funded project on determining the molecular and metabolic mechanisms to enhance magnetosome biomanufacturing in magnetotactic bacteria. As the successful applicant you will join the microbial biotechnology and bioprocessing group within the world-leading Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI).

Magnetosomes of magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are magnetic nanomaterials with exceptional properties such as; narrow size distribution, ferrimagnetic behaviour, allow for one-step functionalisation and are coated by an organic layer that prevents self-aggregation, which makes them extremely attractive for many nanobiotechnology and nanomedicine sectors. However, their real-world application is hindered by the poor availability, due to the difficulty of growing MTB to high cell densities. To address this challenge, this project aims to investigate the mechanisms that limit productivity of both, biomass and magnetosomes, by understanding key environmental and processing factors on the MTB model Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense (Mgryph). This information will be used to develop improved magnetosome bioprocessing methods.

Familiarity with the fields of magnetotactic bacteria will be highly advantageous. Practical experience in any of the following is desired: microbiology, HPLC, flow cytometry, TEM, confocal microscopy; bioreactors, elemental analyzer (i.e. ICP). We will provide full training in new techniques, supported by the possibility for international travel and collaboration.

Please submit your application with contact details of at least 3 referees, a CV, and covering letter stating why you are interested in the topic and what you would bring to the project.

For informal enquires or further information about the project, please directly contact Dr Alfred Fernandez-Castane (a.fernandez-castane1@aston.ac.uk).

Applicants that have not yet been awarded their PhD but are near submission or have recently submitted their PhD are welcomed to apply. The offer of employment will be made as Research Assistant on level 7 of the University grade structure. This post is available immediately with a tenure until 30 September 2025.

The salary being offered for this role is below the minimum threshold for required to sponsor new applicants to the Skilled Worker route. However, Aston University may be able to sponsor the successful candidate if they: 

• Are under 25 years old
• Hold a PhD that is relevant to the role
• Have held a Student or Graduate visa in the last 2 years
• Are already in the UK with a Tier 2 or Skilled Worker visa

Please contact hr_immigration@aston.ac.uk if you would like to discuss your eligibility for Skilled Worker sponsorship. 

Further details:
Job Details
University Information

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, including race and sexual orientation, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk.

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