Research Associate in Biological Chemistry

University of Sheffield; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education institution in Sheffield is seeking a Research Associate to contribute to a Leverhulme Trust-funded project in Chemical Biology. The role involves conducting chemical synthesis and characterisation of modified nucleic acids, alongside collaboration with a dynamic research team. Candidates should possess a good honours degree in Chemistry and be close to obtaining a PhD in a relevant field. The position offers competitive benefits, including generous annual leave and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

38 days annual leave

5 days of paid emergency time off

Competitive pension scheme

Discounts at participating shops

Cycle to work scheme

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry.
• Ability to work collaboratively within research teams.
• Experience supervising postgraduate and/or undergraduate students.

Responsibilities

• Conduct chemical synthesis and characterisation of nucleotides.
• Explore properties and potential applications of modified nucleic acids.
• Collaborate with research teams and contribute to interdisciplinary projects.

Skills

Synthetic organic chemistry

Nucleic acid chemistry

Analytical methods

Purification methods

Scientific writing

Oral presentation

Education

Good honours degree in Chemistry

PhD in relevant subject area

Tools

HPLC

Gel electrophoresis

Job description

Overview

University of Sheffield – Are you passionate about cutting-edge science and eager to make a real impact? We are looking for a highly motivated Research Associate to join our dynamic team in the exciting field of Chemical Biology.

You will be helping to develop innovative methods for the preparation of DNA containing novel carboxymethylated phosphate triesters. The successful candidate will join the established research teams of Dr David Williams (Nucleic Acids Chemistry) and Prof Nick Williams (Mechanistic Organic Chemistry), based in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences and part of the Sheffield Institute for Nucleic Acids. This Leverhulme Trust-funded project will involve the chemical synthesis and characterisation of nucleosides and nucleic acids modified with carboxymethyl phosphate triesters, as well as the exploration of their properties and potential applications. The position is offered on a fixed-term basis for up to 36 months, starting from October 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Responsibilities

• Conduct chemical synthesis and characterisation of nucleosides and nucleic acids modified with carboxymethyl phosphate triesters.
• Explore properties and potential applications of the modified nucleic acids.
• Collaborate with established research teams and contribute to interdisciplinary research goals.

Qualifications

• Good honours degree in Chemistry and either hold, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in a relevant subject area such as synthetic organic and/or nucleic acid chemistry.
• In-depth knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry with interest or experience in nucleic acid chemistry and/or analysing the properties of nucleic acids.
• Experience supervising postgraduate and/or undergraduate students is highly desirable.
• Ability to write high-quality scientific papers and deliver engaging oral presentations.
• Experience in laboratory synthetic organic chemistry; organic chemistry, chemical biology and/or biological chemistry; purification methods such as HPLC and gel electrophoresis; and analytical methods applicable to understanding nucleic acid properties (e.g., melting studies).

Additional information

You will benefit from an excellent mentorship and career development plan, and have the opportunity to mentor postgraduate and undergraduate students. This position provides an excellent opportunity to develop interdisciplinary skills and the ability to communicate with researchers from different disciplines and backgrounds.

What We Offer

• 38 days annual leave (including closure days and Bank Holidays), with the possibility to purchase up to ten additional days.
• Up to 5 days of paid time off to cover emergency caring responsibilities.
• A highly competitive pension scheme.
• Discounts at participating shops and cinemas, and a cycle to work scheme.
• A commitment to your development with programmes, learning modules and mentoring schemes.
• An inclusive and diverse workplace.
• A commitment to your wellbeing, with confidential emotional support.

Further information can be found at https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits

We are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and University. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

How to apply

Apply now by clicking on the Apply button located near the top of your screen.