Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed Term) (MED277025)

University of Nottingham; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in the United Kingdom is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to optimize and scale-up a novel synthetic biology platform for producing biodegradable bioplastics. The ideal candidate has a PhD in a relevant field and experience in synthetic biology and microbial fermentation. This is a full-time role with a fixed-term contract until January 2029.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in synthetic biology/microbial metabolic engineering.
• Strong understanding of microbial physiology and laboratory fermentation practices.
• Familiar with analytical techniques for product quantification.

Responsibilities

• Optimize and scale-up a synthetic biology platform for bioplastics production.
• Bridge genetic design and industrial application.
• Characterize strain performance and optimize fermentation parameters.

Skills

Synthetic biology

Microbial metabolic engineering

Bioprocess development

Analytical techniques (GC-MS, HPLC)

Laboratory fermentation practices

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology

Tools

Bioreactors

Job description

Organisation/Company University of Nottingham Research Field Biological sciences » Other Engineering » Chemical engineering Technology » Biotechnology Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Country United Kingdom Application Deadline 5 Jan 2026 - 23:59 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 36 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Scientist to contribute to the optimisation and scale-up of a novel synthetic biology platform for producing biodegradable bioplastics.

This role involves working with proprietary, genetically engineered bacteria to produce high yields of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) from greenhouse gases.

You will be responsible for bridging the gap between genetic design and industrial application, characterising strain performance and optimising fermentation parameters in bioreactors to maximise biopolymer production. You will be a key member of a collaborative project, supporting the research team by adapting fermentation parameters and downstream processing to maximise biopolymer yield and quality.

The post will be based within the Biodiscovery Institute at the University of Nottingham. The ideal candidate is highly organised and detail-oriented. They should have proven experience in synthetic biology/microbial metabolic engineering and bioprocess development, including microbial fermentation and bioreactor operation. Strong research skills with the ability to independently design and conduct experiments, and excellent communication and collaborative skills to work effectively in an international research setting will be essential. The successful candidate should be willing and able to travel and work onsite at the partner laboratory in Sheffield as needed.

Candidates must have a PhD awarded or submitted (or close to submission) in Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field or the equivalent in professional qualifications and experience in research area. They must have a strong understanding of microbial physiology and laboratory fermentation practices, with existing skills in operating bioreactors. They must be familiar with analytical techniques for product quantification (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC) and possess skills in basic molecular biology and downstream processing. Previous experience of working with gas-fermenting microbes, techno-economic analysis or life cycle assessment would be advantageous but is not essential. The ability to work independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team, along with a strong commitment to producing high-quality research, is essential. The successful candidate will be required to work flexibly in order to meet the demands of the project.

Hours of work are full-time (36.25 hours per week). This post will be available from February 2026 and is offered on a fixed term contract until 31 January 2029.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Ying Zhang, email: [e-mail] . Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

We pride ourselves on the collegial and supportive culture created by our staff. We are dedicated to creating an environment which enables our staff to thrive and achieve their potential. Our commitment to Equality and Diversity has been recognised in the awarding of an Athena Swan Gold Award.