Research Group Leader in Chemical/Synthetic Biology

Pantalent; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institute in Cambridge is seeking a Research Group Leader in Chemical/Synthetic Biology. The ideal candidate will have a PhD, a strong publication record, and a vision for research that aligns with existing programs. This tenure-track position offers substantial funding, exceptional facilities, and minimal administrative duties, fostering a vibrant collaborative culture. Applications will be prioritized if received by September 7th, 2025.

Benefits

Substantial core funding for research

40.5 days holiday per annum

Defined benefit pension scheme

Access to staff restaurant and social facilities

Training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Outstanding track record in the field of chemical/synthetic biology.
• Strong potential for independent research.
• Ability to synergize with existing research programmes.

Responsibilities

• Lead a research group focused on chemical/synthetic biology.
• Utilize exceptional core facilities for innovative research.
• Engage in collaborative work across divisions of the LMB.

Skills

Scientific excellence

Vision in chemical/synthetic biology

Excellent publication record

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Job description

Research Group Leader in Chemical/Synthetic Biology

Starting Salary £65,940 - £74,448 per annum

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge UK

Division of Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry (PNAC)

The MRC LMB invites applications for a tenure-track Group Leader position within PNAC. We seek an outstanding colleague with an exciting vision and outstanding track-record in chemical/synthetic biology, broadly defined.

The primary selection criteria are scientific excellence and the potential for synergy with existing research programmes (www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/research/protein-and-nucleic-acid-chemistry/). You should hold a PhD and have an excellent publication record with outstanding potential for independentresearch.

The position provides substantial core funding for your research. Your group will be hosted in our custom-built institute, which provides exceptional core facilities. Administrative duties are minimal and no teaching is required. Interactions with groups across the four Divisions of the LMB are vibrant and are encouraged.

Informal enquiries can be made to Phil Holliger ([e-mail])

The LMB has a collaborative working culture and state-of-the-art building on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have on-site parking, cycle enclosures and excellent public transport links to the site. We have a staff restaurant with roof terrace and access to a Campus nursery and sports and social facilities. You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme, a holiday entitlement of 40.5 days per annum (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing training and development opportunities including support towards role-related qualifications.

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit our job board at https://mrc.tal.net/vx/lang-en-GB/appcentre-1/candidate/postings/2972 . If you are unable to apply online please contact us at [e-mail].

Submissions should include a covering letter and full CV, an outline of current research interests (1 page) and a proposal for a future research programme, which addresses an important problem in an innovative and creative way (up to 2 pages), along with the names and addresses of three referees who have agreed to be contacted prior to interview.

Closing date: The post will remain open until it is filled but applications received by 7^th September 2025 will receive priority.

This role qualifies for endorsement by UKRI for a UK Global Talent Visa, for which the successfulapplicant is likely to be eligible to apply. Immigrationcosts (visa and health surcharge) can be reclaimed from UKRI after taking up the post (terms and conditions apply).

The LMB is a world-class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is nine research councils, working together across all disciplines and sectors. More information can be found at www.ukri.org and www.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk.

Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening.

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes women, minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require; [e-mail].