Research Associate – Enzyme Design and Engineering
The University of Manchester
Manchester, United Kingdom
General Description
The University of Manchester is seeking to appoint a Research Associate in Enzyme Design and Engineering to contribute to an innovative research programme focused on enzyme discovery, design, and engineering. The successful candidate will work within a multidisciplinary research environment dedicated to advancing biochemical and biotechnological approaches for the development of engineered enzymes and biological systems.
The post holder will contribute to the design, characterisation, and optimisation of candidate enzymes, applying modern molecular biology and engineering biology approaches. Responsibilities include the assembly of genetic constructs and libraries, evaluation of library quality and size, and transfer of constructs into appropriate host organisms. The role also involves the characterisation of engineered strains and enzymes through growth studies, enzymatic assays, and biochemical analyses. Analytical techniques such as liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and related analytical methods may be used to detect and quantify precursor formation and related metabolites.
The Research Associate will participate in iterative cycles of enzyme and strain design, testing, and refinement based on experimental results. The position also involves working toward the miniaturisation and automation of DNA assembly, strain construction, and screening pipelines to support the development and operation of advanced research infrastructure for high-throughput production of prototype glycans, glycoconjugates, and related biomolecules.
The role requires close collaboration with principal investigators, research staff, and external collaborators. The successful candidate will review relevant scientific literature, maintain awareness of emerging developments in the field, and share insights with the research team through group discussions and presentations. The position also involves maintaining accurate research records, preparing written reports, presenting findings at meetings, and contributing to research dissemination through journal publications and conference presentations. The role may also include participation in collaborative meetings with academic and industry partners and compliance with research practices relating to confidentiality, intellectual property, and data management.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must hold a PhD (or equivalent qualification) in biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology, or a closely related discipline. Candidates should demonstrate strong knowledge of enzyme biochemistry, molecular biology, and biocatalysis. Applicants who have submitted their doctoral thesis but have not yet received their degree may be considered and appointed at the appropriate level until the award is confirmed.
Required Expertise/Skills
• Specialist knowledge of enzyme biochemistry, biocatalysis, and molecular biology
• Experience with recombinant protein production, purification, and characterisation
• Practical experience with molecular biology techniques and microbiological methods
• Ability to design and assemble genetic constructs and enzyme libraries
• Experience with enzyme assay development and kinetic characterisation
• Familiarity with analytical techniques including HPLC, NMR, mass spectrometry, gas chromatography, or related methods
• Ability to analyse experimental data and refine enzyme or strain designs through iterative research cycles
• Strong organisational and documentation skills for maintaining accurate experimental records
• Ability to contribute to research publications and scientific dissemination
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration within multidisciplinary teams
• Ability to plan and manage research activities independently while contributing to collaborative projects
Salary Details
£36,924 to £45,163 per annum (depending on experience and qualifications).
Application Deadline
20 March 2026