The Postdoctoral Research Associate will be based in the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB) and Department of Chemistry working with Prof Jason Micklefield in collaboration with Prof Michael Greaney to develop new approaches for integrating enzymes with chemocatalysts for amide synthesis.
Applicants possessing skills in synthetic organic chemistry and/or biological chemistry including knowledge in chemocatalysis and/or biocatalysis are encouraged to apply. The individual could possess interdisciplinary expertise, at the outset, or be keen to learn new skills for working in both synthetic chemistry and biology laboratories. Our lab comprises of ca. 20 co-workers from both Chemistry and Biology backgrounds. There is plenty of opportunity for collaboration and the project will have strong input from existing biologist in our lab who are working on enzyme discovery, characterisation and engineering.
New catalysts providing direct synthetic pathways to important chemicals and materials are essential for a sustainable society. This project seeks to develop next generation catalysts for construction of ubiquitous amide bonds. The formation of amide bonds is one of the most fundamental reactions in nature. A high proportion of essential chemicals and materials are also constructed through amide bonds, including pharmaceuticals where synthesis of amides is the most frequently used reaction.
Selected relevant publication:
Nature 2021, 593, 391–398 (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-021-03447-w);
Nature Catalysis 2021, 4, 385–394 (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41929-021-00603-3);
Nature Catalysis 2018, 1, 977–984 (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41929-018-0178-2);
Nature Commun. 2016, 7, 11873 (https://doi.org/10.1038/ncomms11873);
The School of Chemistry is strongly committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN Charter for gender equality in higher education. The School holds a Silver Award which recognises their good practice in relation to gender; including flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies, and support to allow staff to achieve a good work-life balance. We particularly welcome applications from women for this post. Appointment will always be made on merit. For further information, please visit http://www.chemistry.manchester.ac.uk/about-us/athena-swan/
Happy to talk flexible working.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Name: Professor Jason Micklefield
Email jason.micklefield@manchester.ac.uk
Telephone +44 (0)161 306 4509
Email: hrservices@manchester.ac.uk
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
