Postdoctoral Research Associate in Biocatalysis

About the role

Job reference: SAE-031690 Salary: £37,694 - £46,049 per annum depending on experience Faculty/Organisational Unit: Science and Engineering Location: Manchester Institute of Biotechnology Employment type: Fixed Term Division/Team: Department of Chemistry Hours Per Week: Full Time (1 FTE) Closing date (DD/MM/YYYY): 29/06/2026 Contract Duration: Fixed term for 24 months School/Directorate: School of Natural Sciences We are seeking motivated and collaborative individuals to join our team as Research Associates in Protein Engineering and Biocatalysis . These roles offer an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge research within the Department of Chemistry and the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB) , working at the interface of enzyme engineering and sustainable manufacturing. Two full‑time, fixed‑term Research Associate posts are available for 24 months from September 2026 . You will work within the research groups of Professor Anthony Green and Dr Jack Rowbotham , contributing to an Innovate UK‑funded project in close collaboration with industrial partners. You will be part of a dynamic and inclusive interdisciplinary research environment, developing new enzyme design and engineering methodologies to create highly proficient biocatalysts for a wide range of chemical transformations, with direct relevance to sustainable industrial processes. You will be responsible for: Designing and undertaking high‑quality research in protein engineering and biocatalysis Developing innovative experimental protocols and biocatalytic approaches Applying protein redesign, library generation and high‑throughput screening or selection methods Collaborating closely with academic and industrial partners to deliver industry‑focused research outputs Disseminating research through peer‑reviewed publications, reports and presentations We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work. About You We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate: Essential Criteria A PhD (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Molecular Biology or a closely related discipline A strong research track record in biocatalysis or protein engineering, evidenced by peer‑reviewed publications Experience in enzyme engineering, protein expression and mutagenesis and/or directed evolution Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative research team Excellent communication and organisational skills Desirable Criteria Experience in organic synthesis Experience developing high‑throughput assays for enzyme screening Experience working with industrial partners or industry‑facing research projects Experience supporting or training students or early‑career researchers We value transferable skills, creativity and a strong commitment to collaborative, inclusive research as much as formal qualifications. Our benefits include: Generous employer pension contribution 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure Access to world‑class facilities and professional development opportunities at the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology For more information, please see https://www.manchester.ac.uk/connect/jobs/benefits-working-here/ You can also find information on Flexible and Hybrid working here: https://www.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/people/current-staff/flexible-and-hybrid-working/ We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy: https://www.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/news/display/?id=32905 Enquiries about the role, shortlisting and interviews Name: Professor Anthony Green Email Address: anthony.green@manchester.ac.uk General enquiries and administrative support recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk Technical and job portal support https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home Applicants must demonstrate the right to work in the UK. Applications close at midnight on the closing date. £37,694 to £46,049 per annum depending on experience

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