About the role
The postholder will be required to develop biotechnology-based solutions to identify routes to recycle plastics. This will involve (i) The production and assay of literature, and metagenomic enzymes, (ii) characterization of the best performing enzymes, (iii) The use of evolution strategies, to enhance performance, (iv) use of mechanical and chemical pretreatments developed in related research carried out at UCL, to increase biofragmentation/ degradation of polymers including PET and polyurethane (v) valorisation of degradation products towards value added chemicals. The postholder will work in a multi-disciplinary environment with members of the P3EB Hub so excellent team-working and communication skills will be required. The appointment is funded by the UKRI for 24 months in the first instance
About you
The successful candidate will have a PhD degree (or be about to be awarded a PhD) in an area of Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or equivalent subject. Experience in several of the following areas: polymer biodegradation, enzyme discovery, expression and screening, bioinformatics, directed evolution, assay development and compound/polymer characterisation, together with a good publication track record, a demonstrated commitment to excellence, and excellent skills in the lab are required. They will be required to work in a multidisciplinary, collaborative team and have effective written and verbal communication skills in English. Please note, appointment at Grade 7 (£42, - £50, including London Allowance) is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at Research Assistant Grade 6B (£37, - £39, including London Allowance) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:- • 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)• Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan• Immigration loan• Relocation scheme for certain posts• On-Site nursery• On-site gym• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service• Discounted medical insurance