Postdoctoral Research Associate/Assistant in Biochemistry

The World Aquaculture Society; Oban; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization in Scotland is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate/Assistant in Biochemistry to advance algal biotechnology. The role involves generating empirical datasets and contributing to biotechnological applications in aquaculture, all while enhancing research capacity in metabolomics.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field required.
• Experience in macroalgae and/or microalgae.
• Ability to work in interdisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Generate datasets on algal strains' metabolic composition.
• Conduct full-trait characterisation of key strains.
• Optimise bioassays for bioactivity quantification.

Skills

Experimental design

Analytical biochemistry

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Phycology, Algal Biotechnology, or Biochemistry

Tools

GC-MS

HPLC

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate/Assistant in Biochemistry

Oban Full Time

Job Details

You will play a key role in advancing algal biotechnology by generating high-quality empirical datasets on the metabolic composition and activity of NERC-UKRI CCAP algal strains.

The successful candidate will contribute to expanding the biotechnological potential of these strains, particularly for applications in the agri- and aquaculture sectors, while enhancing SAMS’ research capacity in metabolomics and natural products. The role will focus on three core activities: overseeing untargeted biochemical phenotype screening across the CCAP collection, conducting full-trait characterisation of key sector-relevant strains within CCAP, and optimising bioassays to identify and quantify bioactivity of selected strains.

This post is central to increasing the biotechnological value of the CCAP holdings and strengthening SAMS’ research profile in this growing field. This work will be part of the Natural Products BioHUB project that we have in partnership with Swansea University (lead partner) and CABI.

See project details here: https://www.swansea.ac.uk/bioscience/research-and-impact/natural-products-biohub-project/naturalproductsbiohub-project-news-and-events/biohub-blog/2024/the-np-biohub-has-successfully-secured-ukri-funding-for-a-new-interdisciplinary-centre-aimed-at-enhancing-the-local-green-economy.php

You will work under the guidance of Lecturer in Algal Biotechnology/CCAP Manager and Associate Professor of Physiological Ecology.

Ideally, we are looking for the successful candidate to start no later than 1st October 2025.

Requirements

We are seeking a post-doctoral researcher with a PhD in Phycology, Algal Biotechnology, or Biochemistry, ideally with a strong biochemistry focus.

The ideal candidate will have experience in phycology/algal biotechnology involving either macroalgae and/or microalgae, and a proven ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams. A solid foundation in experimental design and method development in analytical biochemistry and biology is essential.

The successful applicant will demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey scientific findings. Experience with analytical techniques such as GC-MS and HPLC is highly desirable and will be considered a significant advantage.

Contact Information

Scottish Association for Marine Science SAMS



https://jobs.schmidtmarine.org/companies/scottish-association-for-marine-science-2/jobs/53447015-pdra-in-biochemistry#content
We would love to hear from you. If you have queries on the job and would like to talk these through before applying, please email these through, in the first instance, to Dr Michael Ross - [e-mail]

Applications must include CV and Cover Letter and should be sent electronically to [e-mail] quoting Job Ref. ‘D05/25.MR’ in the subject heading.

Closing date for applications is 27th July 2025 - Interviews to be held shortly thereafter.

Please note, we are unfortunately unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Full details, and guidance on applying, can be found here:

https://www.sams.ac.uk/vacancies/pdra-in-biochemistry-d0525mr/

Post Date: 7/6/2025 9:47:29 AM
Closing Date: 7/27/2025 12:00:00 AM

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About this company

SAMS is Scotland’s largest independent marine research organisation delivering innovative, world-class marine science solutions to developing a sustainable relationship with the marine environment. This is done through research, education, services to business, and public engagement. SAMS has research expertise in areas including Arctic seas, marine renewable energy, people and the sea, and dynamic oceans. SAMS operates the modern and well-equipped Scottish Marine Institute at the scenic Dunstaffnage Peninsula near Oban, Argyll, and currently employs over 160 staff – including physical oceanographers, hydrographers, marine geologists, biogeochemists, microbial and molecular biologists, ecologists, social scientists, and modellers.

About this company

SAMS is Scotland’s largest independent marine research organisation delivering innovative, world-class marine science solutions to developing a sustainable relationship with the marine environment. This is done through research, education, services to business, and public engagement. SAMS has research expertise in areas including Arctic seas, marine renewable energy, people and the sea, and dynamic oceans. SAMS operates the modern and well-equipped Scottish Marine Institute at the scenic Dunstaffnage Peninsula near Oban, Argyll, and currently employs over 160 staff – including physical oceanographers, hydrographers, marine geologists, biogeochemists, microbial and molecular biologists, ecologists, social scientists, and modellers.

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