Research Fellow (Fixed term)
Applications are invited for a Research Fellow to work on a project to develop self-assembled biomaterial-based in vitro models of plant roots to recreate and study the natural plant microbiome
The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary project funded by Human Frontiers Science Program Grant. The overall aim of the post will be to develop an in vitro model of plant roots using a self-assembled biomaterial based on the co-assembly of peptides with biomolecules such as proteins. The material will enable the incorporation of relevant cells and biological signals and be compatible with biofabrication techniques. The successful candidate will be responsible for optimizing the self-assembly process, characterization of the materials, fabrication of the scaffolds, and their biological validation.
This work will be based within the School of Pharmacy and the Biodiscovery Institute (www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/research-areas/biodiscovery-institute/biodiscovery-institute.aspx) and led by Prof. Alvaro Mata (School of Pharmacy and Department of Chemical Engineering) and Prof. Gabriel Castrillo (Plant and Crop Sciences) at the University of Nottingham. The candidate will be required to undertake research and day-day management of this research project, requiring a high degree of competence, problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaborative work.
Applicants must be highly motivated and self-driven, with a PhD (or equivalent) in Materials Science, Bioengineering, Biology, or related disciplines. It is desirable for the successful candidate to have considerable experience in one or more of the following: Self-assembling peptides; Polymer and peptide cross-linking; Cell and tissue culture; Hydrogels; Different microscopy techniques; Immunohistochemistry; Supramolecular chemistry.
A track record of publishing research is essential.
Relevant references include:
Wu et al, Matter 2024, 10.1016/j.matt.2023.10.029.
Hill et al, Current Opinion in Biotechnology 2022, 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.10.016.
Hedegaard CL and Mata Biofabrication 2020, 12 (3), 10.1088/1758-5090/ab84cb.
Wu et al, Nature Communications 2020, 11, 1182, 10.1038/s41467-020-14716-z.
This role is available from 1st September 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter, on a fixed term contract for up to 2 years. Hours of work are full time (36.25 hours). Job share arrangements may be considered.
Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.
Informal enquiries may be addressed to Alvaro Mata, email a.mata@nottingham.ac.uk or Gabriel Castrillo, email gabriel.castrillo@nottingham.ac.uk.
Please note that applications sent directly to these email addresses will not be accepted.
Further details:
View Additional Information (this will open a new window)
Our university is a supportive, inclusive, caring and positive community. We welcome those of different cultures, ethnicities and beliefs – indeed this very diversity is vital to our success, it is fundamental to our values and enriches life on campus. Learn more about the university commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
We are delighted to share that we are the first university to have achieved Athena Swan Gold Award.
We want you to succeed in our recruitment process and have published Candidate Guidance for you to access information and support on application and interview process.
We offer a range of benefits, visit Your Benefits website to learn what we can offer you.
We welcome applications from UK, Europe and from across the globe and we want to make your transition to living in the UK as smooth as possible. Visit the Moving to Nottingham page to find out more.
Your application will be considered on an equal basis, subject to the relevant permission to work in the UK as set out by UK Visas & Immigration.
View All Vacancies