Applications are invited for a Research Associate to join a team integrating AI approaches with Synthetic Biology for the optimisation of biosynthetic pathways, in the group of Dr Geoff Baldwin at the South Kensington Campus of Imperial College London together with Dr Patrik Jones.
We are using CRISPR\Cas tools to target specific nodes in the E. coli metabolic network to create perturbations to metabolism. This project seeks to integrate this approach with automated characterisation under specific growth conditions. The resulting data will be integrated with a deep learning approach to metabolic perturbation in collaboration with the group of Prof. Jean-Loup Faulon (INRAE, Paris). The successful candidate will be highly motivated, with good teamwork skills and a knowledge of both computational and coding approaches alongside well developed laboratory skills.
Duties and responsibilities
• To take initiative in the planning of research
• To programme and develop automation protocols required for the collection and analysis of data
• To ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times
• To maintain accurate and complete records of all findings
• To write reports for submission to research sponsors
• To prepare material for presentation in oral and poster formats
• To draft publications and prepare them for submission to preferred journals
• To take responsibility for organising resources and effective decision making in support of research
• To attend relevant workshops and conferences as necessary
• To assist with the supervision of research students within the lab
• To develop contacts and research collaborations within the College and the wider community
• To promote the reputation of the Group, the Department and the College
Essential requirements
• A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, which may include biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, biotechnology or systems biology.
You must be able to demonstrate the following:
• Experience in synthetic biology approaches to DNA assembly and general molecular biology
• Coding skills, ideally in Python
• An ability to develop quantitative methods, with careful attention to controls
• Experience in laboratory automation and developing automated protocols
• A capacity to develop the skills required to become an independent researcher.
You must also possess the following skills:
• Ability to develop and apply new concepts
• Creative approach to problem-solving
• Excellent verbal communication skills and the ability to deal with a wide range of people
• Excellent written communication skills and the ability to write clearly and succinctly for publication
Further Information
This is a full time, fixed-term post for 7 months from 1st of October 2022 and you will be based in South Kensington Campus.
Informal enquires can be made directly to Dr Geoff Baldwin, Professor of Synthetic & Molecular Biology in the Department of Life Sciences, at
[email protected] To apply, visit
www.imperial.ac.uk/jobs and search by the job reference NAT01213
