Research Associate in Evolving Quantum Mechanical Tunnelling in Enzymes

The University of Manchester; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 37,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university is seeking a Research Associate in Evolving Quantum Mechanical Tunnelling in Enzymes. This role involves designing experiments and measuring enzyme activities to explore quantum mechanical tunnelling in biological reactions. Candidates should have experience in enzyme directed evolution and kinetic measurements. The position offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits, including a pension scheme and health services.

Benefits

Market-leading pension scheme

Employee health and wellbeing services

Additional paid closure over Christmas

Qualifications

• Prior experience in the directed evolution of enzymes.
• Experience measuring kinetic isotope effects (KIEs) on enzyme-catalysed reactions.
• Experience in high-throughput chromatography highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute directed evolution experiments for H-transfer enzymes using parallel selection methods.
• Measure enzyme activity, kinetics and kinetic isotope effects (KIEs).
• Perform advanced enzyme kinetics, KIE measurements and structural biology.

Skills

Directed evolution of enzymes

Measuring kinetic isotope effects (KIEs)

High-throughput chromatography

X-ray crystallography

Computational chemistry

Job description

Research Associate in Evolving Quantum Mechanical Tunnelling in Enzymes

University of Manchester
Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 7DN
£37,694 to £46,049 per annum, depending on relevant experience
Contract
NEW

Research in H‑transfer reactions involving hydride, hydrogen atom or proton transfers focuses on the role of quantum mechanical tunnelling (QMT). The project combines experimental studies of H‑tunnelling in enzyme‑catalysed reactions with directed (laboratory) evolution (DE) to explore QMT’s contribution during artificial enzyme evolution. The methodology also aims to provide a new approach to enzyme optimisation for selective deuteration in pharmaceutical synthesis and industrial biocatalysis.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute directed evolution experiments for H‑transfer enzymes using parallel selection methods.
• Measure enzyme activity, kinetics and kinetic isotope effects (KIEs).
• Perform advanced enzyme kinetics, KIE measurements and structural biology (including X‑ray crystallography).
• Collaborate with Prof. Sam Hay and Prof. Anthony Green’s research groups.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in the directed evolution of enzymes.
• Experience measuring kinetic isotope effects (KIEs) on enzyme‑catalysed reactions.
• Experience in high‑throughput chromatography highly desirable.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas would be an advantage:
  • X‑ray crystallography
  • Computational chemistry

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.

Equal Opportunities

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered. The vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Contact

Name: Prof. Sam Hay
Email: [e-mail]

General enquiries: Email: [e-mail]

Technical support: 0161 850 2004