Research Associate (BBSRC Global Centres)

Applications are invited for a Research Associate to work with Dr Neil Dixon based in the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology. The position is available for up to 48 months and is available from the 1st June 2025. This specific role will seek to convert low-value biogenic waste feedstocks into value-added chemicals including monomers (diols, dicaids etc) and biopolymers. Key to the success of the engineering biology approaches, is the ability to sense and regulate the associated molecules and genes/pathways. This post will develop genetic tools, based on allosteric transcription factors and to employ these tools to fine tune the expression/metabolic flux in suitable production host. In particular, tools for sensing intermediates and controlling gene expression are essential for developing a mature synthetic biology platform. You should be capable of working under your own initiative and within a research team, so excellent communication and organisational skills are required. Applicants should have, or be about to obtain, a PhD in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Molecular Microbiology, Metabolic Engineering (or closely related field). This project would suit individuals with a stond interested in microbial biotechnology, and the sustainable bioeconomy.

The Department of Chemistry is strongly committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN Charter for gender equality in higher education. The Department holds a Silver Award which recognises their good practice in relation to gender; including flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies, and support to allow staff to achieve a good work-life balance. We particularly welcome applications from women for this post. Appointment will always be made on merit. For further information, please visit www.chemistry.manchester.ac.uk/about-us/athena-swan.

We positively welcome applications from women, who are currently under-represented at this grade. Appointment will be made on merit.

The University will actively foster a culture of inclusion and diversity and will seek to achieve true equality of opportunity for all members of its community.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we support an inclusive working environment and welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any CVs submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Dr Neil Dixon

Email: neil.dixon@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support: jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Type / Role:

Subject Area(s):

Location(s):