Research Associate in Chemical Biology - College of Engineering and Physical Sciences -104075 - Grade 6

Summary The role has arisen as a consequence of the award of a BBSRC sLoLa award (SPIDR) to Prof Andrew Wilson (University of Birmingham). The purpose of the role is: (i) to assist Prof Wilson and Dr Chiara Arno in developing cell permeable peptidomimetic inhibitors of the interaction between the Aurora A kinase and its regulatory clients; (ii) to assist Professor Wilson in running and maintaining a research laboratory, (iii) to facilitate collaboration with wider members of the SPIDR team at the Universities of Leeds and Oxford.The role is available for 12 months.Main DutiesThe responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below. Work in close collaboration with a senior research associate in the Wilson group and as part of a larger team of researchers to design, plan and conduct a programme of investigation in consultation Prof Andrew Wilson, using appropriate methods to analyse and interpret research data,  Performing analyses of cell-uptake behaviour of peptidomimetic protein-protein interaction inhibitor candidates using confocal imaging, alongside functional assays (. toxicity analyses); Support the acquisition of biochemical and biophysical assay data . by performing protein expression and/or carrying out fluorescence anisotropy competition assays; Assist Prof Wilson in the dissemination of research results by contributing to publication in leading peer-reviewed journals, and, by presentation at national and international;  To support the running of the Wilson group’s research activities and communication, through participation at group meetings/seminars, contributing to the supervision of junior researchers and PhD students and acting as a mentor to less experienced colleagues; To support ongoing collaborations with relevant researcher groups including Richard Bayliss and Megan Wright (University of Leeds) and Fanni Gergely (University of Oxford).  To contribute to, and to encourage, a safe working environment. Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture. Person SpecificationEssential: A masters level degree in chemical biology or relevant allied discipline; Practical experience of cell culture and confocal microscopy; Practical experience in functional cell-based assays, . MTS, reporter gene, Western Blot; The ability to write up research independently, together with the ability to contribute to peer reviewed publications in international journals; Excellent communication skills.  A proven ability to work under supervision and as part of a team, with a strong commitment to research in a team environment; Good organisational time management and planning skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines, manage competing demands and work effectively under pressure without close support; Ability to assess resource requirements, use resources effectively and contribute to broader laboratory management; Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly Desirable: A PhD degree.  Experience in the analyses of cell-uptake of synthetic compounds . peptides; Practical experience of protein expression and purification; Experience of biophysical/biochemical assays to assess functional effects of inhibitor candidates;