Post-Doctoral Research Fellow in Synthetic Biology

About us

The Division of Biosciences is one of the world’s foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL, undertaking a significant amount of research and teaching. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Computational modelling approaches are frequently used alongside experimental research programmes and much of our research crosses traditional boundaries, including the relationship of biodiversity to the health of the planet. Activity is underpinned by high calibre science technology platforms and state of the art equipment. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Algal Biotechnology Group headed by Professor Saul Purton. The successful applicant will join a pioneering research effort developing the minimal chloroplast genome in the alga Chlamydomonas as a model for fundamental studies into the malleability of the universal genetic code, and developing the alga as an advanced light-driven platform for engineering biology.

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated researcher to take a lead role in using synthetic biology approaches to explore the malleability of the genetic code using the minimal chloroplast genetic system of the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii as a model. This work focuses on compression of the genetic code, reassignment of codons, and the development of systems for the efficient incorporation of non-canonical amino acids into proteins expressed in the chloroplast. The research also involves the development of advanced genetic tools and technologies for whole genome transplantation in the algal chloroplast. This project is funded by the BBSRC as part of their ‘Rules of Life’ priority area and involves collaborations with the Universities of Cambridge and Edinburgh, and the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology. The role would suit someone with expertise in synthetic biology, prokaryotic/organellar gene expression and the genetic engineering of microorganisms.

Interview Date(s) are scheduled for: the last week of February .

This is an open ended role until 31st March 2026 in the first instance, although the post is expected to be extended until 31st March 2027.

Research Fellows - 'Appointment at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at Grade 6B (salary £38,357 - £41,005 per annum) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD Thesis.'

This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff. Please visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/human-resources/conditions-service-research-teaching-and-professional-services-staff for more information.

A job description and person specification can be accessed at the bottom of this page.

If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please contact Biosciences staffing at biosciences.staffing@ucl.ac.uk.

Customer advert reference: B02-08295

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