Research Associate in Thermally Stable Vaccine Formulations using Ionic Liquids

About the role:

The Department of Chemical Engineering is seeking a researcher to undertake work on novel vaccine formulations for existing and novel vaccine production processes.

What you would be doing:

You will carry out research in experimental design, RNA stabilisation and nanocarrier formulations for new vaccine manufacturing systems based on lipids, polymers and ionic liquids. You will be responsible for project management and/or to supervise multi-disciplinary teams. In addition, you will be submit publications to refereed journals and proposals to attract external research funding.

What we are looking for:

You will design, synthesize and test novel carriers to enhance the stability and delivery of RNA agents for vaccine applications.

Some of your key responsibilities will include:

• Working with project partners on improving existing vaccine formulation approaches
• Synthesising RNA agents (saRNA, mRNA) for in vitro and in vivo experiments
• Designing new formulations based on lipids, ionic liquids, and polymers for effective RNA delivery
• Developing formulations for stabilizing RNA from thermal, chemical and biochemical degradation
• Performing cell-based assays for formulation characterisation, including cell transfection experiments

The successful candidate will have a first degree (or equivalent) in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering, Biology, Chemistry/Biochemistry or a related discipline and a PhD (or equivalent) in the field of Medicine, Pharmaceuticals, or related to vaccine technologies or drug delivery.  You will have knowledge of vaccines and formulation strategies as well as synthetic chemistry. 

You will be able to perform experiments in cell culture, wet chemistry lab and all accompanying analytical biology and chemistry techniques, produce clear written reports and presentations and have the ability to collect and manipulate data.

*Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant within the salary range £43,0003 – £46,297 per annum.

What we can offer you:

This role is part of a wider Future Vaccine Manufacturing Research Hub, led by Imperial’s Faculty of Medicine and involving several UK universities, international companies, and partner institutions in multiple countries worldwide.

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information

The post is available immediately and the appointment is for a maximum of 24 months. The post is based in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Imperial College London (South Kensington Campus).

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Professor Jason Hallett (j.hallett@imperial.ac.uk) and Dr Talia A Shmool (t.shmool20@imperial.ac.uk).

Advert information