About us

We are a synthetic chemistry group working in supramolecular and biological chemistry, and nanotechnology. We work in the Francis Crick Institute in London, and at King's College London.

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.

About the role

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. We work both in basic science, and translational applications.

This the successful candidate for this 24-month role will lead our chemical biology research programme; designing and conducting experiments, liaising with world-leading STPs at the Francis Crick Institute, developing and deploying assays, training junior researchers, and liaising with CROs. They will take the lead on assaying the biological activity of the numerous therapeutic molecules developed in our laboratory, and help guide their successful optimisation, working closely with chemists across our research portfolio.

Details of research projects currently being undertaken can be seen at: mcternanresearchgroup.com

Research techniques used in the laboratory include: Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, Host-Guest Studies, NMR, ITC, HRMS, MSMS, CD, Fluorescence, Bilayer Assays, Water Transport Assays, Self-Assembly, Cell Culture, Assay Development, Proteomics, Western Blot, Synthetic Inorganic Chemistry.

The postholder will be responsible for:

• 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
• Develop ideas for generating research income, and present detailed research proposals
• Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques. Have a pro-active approach to the management of health and safety protocols and play a role within the group in ensuring compliance with all local and national safety regulations.
• Use and help to maintain specialist scientific equipment in a laboratory environment
• Presenting work externally at international meetings
• Authoring papers under guidance from Group Leader
• Following Postdoctoral Training programmes
• Developing academic independence
• Improving established protocols and/or developing new protocols
• Supervision of junior researchers
• Collaborating internally, and with Contract Research Organisations externally

This is a full time post (35 hours per week), offered on a fixed term contract for 24 months.

About you

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience.

Please note that all applications must be accompanied by a supporting statement. Within that statement, all of the below essential criteria must be addressed.

Essential criteria

1. PhD in Chemical Biology and/or related field.
2. Expertise in Chemical Biology
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. Show an ability to work supportively in a laboratory environment, and to supervise and educate junior co-workers and take part in joint projects.
6. Be willing to play a role in keeping the laboratory running by assuming a share of group responsibilities and have a pro-active approach to management of laboratory safety.

Desirable criteria

1. Experience in Biological Assay design and development
2. Experience with ITC and/or other methods to determine binding constants
3. Experience in Cell Culture
4. Experience with wider Chemical Biology/Biology techniques (western blot, proteomics, IC50, SPR, crystallography etc)
5. Experience working with CROs
6. Experience with Protein Expression

Downloading a copy of our Job Description

Full details of the role and the skills, knowledge and experience required can be found in the Job Description document, provided at the bottom of the next page after you click “Apply Now”. This document will provide information of what criteria will be assessed at each stage of the recruitment process.

* 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

We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming. We embrace diversity and want everyone to feel that they belong and are connected to others in our community.

We are committed to working with our staff and unions on these and other issues, to continue to support our people and to develop a diverse and inclusive culture at King's.

We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.

To find out how our managers will review your application, please take a look at our ‘ How we Recruit’ pages.

We are able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.

Grade and Salary: £44,105 - £47,632 per annum, including London Weighting Allowance
Job ID: 106825
Close Date: 23-Feb-2025
Contact Person: Charlie McTernan
Contact Details: Charlie.mcternan@kcl.ac.uk