Job description

The research group  

We are a synthetic chemistry group established in 2021, working in supramolecular and biological chemistry, and nanotechnology. We work in the Francis Crick Institute in London, and at the Department of Chemistry at King's College London. Our research looks at how we can apply Supramolecular Chemistry in Biological settings. The McTernan Group aims to apply recent breakthroughs in artificial molecular machines and metal-organic capsules in biologically relevant settings. We work with rotaxanes, catenanes and capsules to synthesise functional architectures, creating de novo catalytic enzyme analogues, artificial cellular receptors, and generating targeted drug delivery vehicles. Find out more about our work at our website. 

Project summary

Our research looks at how we can apply Supramolecular Chemistry in Biological settings. Supramolecular Chemistry is the study of intermolecular, non-covalent interactions. These non-covalent interactions are critical to protein folding, DNA base pairing, and cellular signalling. Supramolecular Chemistry applies these same principles to create artificial systems capable of performing complex tasks. The McTernan Group aims to apply recent breakthroughs in artificial molecular machines and metal-organic capsules in biologically relevant settings. We work with rotaxanes, catenanes and capsules to synthesise functional architectures, creating de novo catalytic enzyme analogues, artificial cellular receptors, and generating targeted drug delivery vehicles. 

In this project, the successful candidate will work to integrate biological and artificial molecular machines, using simple chemical triggers to control the function of complex biological species. The successful candidate will collaborate widely both within the group, and across the Crick and King’s. This role would suit a team player who enjoys juggling multiple projects, and building relationships across disciplines. 

Research Associates are expected to lead their own projects, contribute to other projects on a collaborative basis (both in the lab and with external collaborators), propose new projects, and guide PhD students in their research. The ability to work in a team is essential. 

International applicants welcome. 

This post will be offered on a fixed-term contract, up to four years, with funding available until 31st August 2026 in the first instance

This is a full-time post

Key responsibilities

Some of the specific aims for this role are, but not limited to:  

• Investigating research questions and developing specific research project(s) under guidance from Group Leader 
• Providing specialist advice and guidance, sharing knowledge and expertise for the benefit of others 
• Providing significant contribution to the production of research papers for publication, presenting findings to group members and other internal audiences 
• Presenting work externally at international meetings 
• Authoring papers under guidance from Group Leader 
• Following Postdoctoral Training programme  
• Developing academic independence  
• Improving established protocols and/or develops new protocols 
• Supervision of junior researchers

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.  

Skills, knowledge, and experience 

The post holder should embody and demonstrate our core Crick values: bold, imaginative, open, dynamic and collegial, in addition to the following:  

Essential criteria  

1. PhD in Supramolecular or Protein Chemistry (or in the final stages of PhD submission) 

2. Expertise in organic synthesis and/or protein expression 

3. Track record of writing papers as evidenced by publications or submitted manuscripts in referred journals 

4. Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings 

5. Experience of experimental design 

6. Ability to work independently and within a group 

7. Eager to learn new techniques 

Desirable criteria

8. Experience in molecular machinery or interlocked molecules 

9. Experience in post-translational modification 

10. Experience in analysis of complex structures by NMR, CD, crystallographic techniques, or fluorescence.  

11. Evidence of a creative and collaborative approach 

* Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting award of their PhDs will be considered. In these circumstances the appointment will be made at Grade 5, spine point 30 with the title of Research Assistant. Upon confirmation of the award of the PhD, the job title will become Research Associate and the salary will increase to Grade 6. 

Further information

Please include in your application:  

•  An up-to-date CV 

•  A personal statement 

•  Research summary (no more than 2 pages) 

Supramolecular Chemistry  

Organic Chemistry 

Chemical Biology