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SalaryA full-time three-year post-doctoral research associate position in synthetic chemistry is available, as part of a multidisciplinary project centred on plant Natural Product biosynthesis. Better understanding of how plants form complex Natural Products is expected to lead to the generation of novel biocatalysts and routes to bioactive compounds. A major project aim is to discover the metabolic origins to chiral bioactive alkaloids, through discovery and characterisation of the biosynthetic enzymes and pathway intermediates.
The project is led by Dr Benjamin Lichman, a UKRI Future Leader Fellow at the Centre for Novel Agricultural Products, Department of Biology, working in close collaboration with the groups of Dr Will Unsworth and Prof Gideon Grogan in the Department of Chemistry. This postdoctoral research associate post will be based primarily in the department of Chemistry in the lab of Dr Will Unsworth, who will be the line manager for this post. The successful applicant will work as part of a multidisciplinary team that will include the three PIs, plus a biochemist post-doctoral researcher, a synthetic chemist post-doctoral researcher (i.e. this role) and a biology research technician.
Applications are sought from individuals with a PhD in chemistry, biochemistry or a similar subject. Expertise in synthetic organic chemistry and the analysis and structural determination of small organic molecules is essential; experience with the chromatographic separation of product mixtures and experience of HPLC analysis are desirable. This appointment will therefore suit a candidate with strong training in chemical synthesis and analysis, with experience in Natural Products and biosynthesis useful, but not essential.
The Department of Chemistry is one of the UK's leading Chemistry departments and we are renowned internationally for our research. We have been recognised consistently for our family-friendly policies and are proud of our Athena SWAN Gold Award.
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Role
To conduct research under the supervision of senior colleagues and to contribute to the production of research
To assist in the identification and development of potential areas of research and the development of proposals for independent or collaborative research projects
Skills, Experience & Qualification needed
First degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or relevant subject
PhD in chemistry or equivalent experience
Extensive skills in synthetic organic chemistry and analysis
Extensive experience of the analysis of small organic molecules using NMR spectroscopy
Experience of carrying out both independent and collaborative research
Experience of writing up research work for publication
Ability to work as part of a team and also to work independently using own initiative
Commitment to and understanding of Equality and Diversity Issues
This role is available on a fixed term basis for 36 months
Interview date: to be confirmed
For informal enquiries: please contact Dr Will Unsworth (william.unsworth@york.ac.uk)
The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.
We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.
We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork
