Internal Applicants Only - Research Associate

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This post is currently open to employees of Cardiff University only.  Please do not apply if you do not have a current contract of employment with the University.

Internal Applicants Only - Research Associate
School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

The primary responsibility of the Research Associate will be to conduct original research in the group of Dr Fabio Parmeggiani (School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences) ( https://profiles.cardiff.ac.uk/staff/parmeggianif ) in the broad area of protein design.

The project will be focused on designing custom modular protein architectures as robust and reliable scaffolds for the development of novel functional protein-based nanomaterials and sensors, in particular for the recognition of carbohydrates, for applications in biomarker detection and reducing antimicrobial resistance.

The project will build on the group work on computational design of repeat proteins and their use as building blocks for design of novel proteins with custom shapes.

The aim of the project is to design and experimentally characterize novel proteins, determining their structure and assessing functions.

The position would be best suited to a researcher with an interest in applying de novo protein design in synthetic biology. Essential skills for this role would include design, construction and expression of synthetic genes in E. coli; biochemical and biophysical characterisation of proteins; structural biology expertise, in particular with cryo-electron microscopy and/or x-ray crystallography.

This position is full-time, 35 hours per week and fixed term until 1st August 2026, but subjected to potential extension, depending on funding availability. 

Salary: £40,497 - £45,413 per annum (Grade 6).  Appointments to roles at Cardiff University are usually made at bottom of scale unless in exceptional circumstances.

Closing date: Friday, 11 July 2025

External applications are currently not being considered for this post.  If the decision is made to open the post to external candidates, the strapline at the top will be removed and you will be given ample time to apply – please check back periodically for details.

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds who have the ambition to create a University which seeks to fulfil our social, cultural and economic obligation to Cardiff, Wales, and the world.  In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.

Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.

Job Description

Main Function

To conduct research within the protein design area and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University, carrying out research leading to the publishing of high-quality research. To pursue excellence in research and to inspire others to do the same.

 Main Duties and Responsibilities

Research

• To conduct research within protein design and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University by the production of measurable outputs including bidding for funding, publishing in national academic journals and conferences, and the recruitment and supervision of postgraduate research students. 
• To develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research including research funding proposals
• To attend and or present at conferences/seminars at a local and national level as required
• To undertake administrative tasks associated with the research project, including the planning and organisation of the project and the implementation of procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting
• To prepare research ethics and research governance applications as appropriate
• To review and synthesise existing research literature within the field
• To participate in School research activities.
• To build and create networks both internally and externally to the university, to influence decisions, explore future research requirements, and share research ideas for the benefit of research projects

• To engage effectively with industrial, commercial and public sector organisations, professional institutions, other academic institutions etc., regionally and nationally to raise awareness of the School’s profile, to cultivate strategically valuable alliances, and to pursue opportunities for collaboration across a range of activities. These activities are expected to contribute to the School and the enhancement of its regional and national profile.

• To undergo personal and professional development that is appropriate to, and which will enhance performance.
• To participate in School administration and activities to promote the School and its work to the wider University and the outside world
• Any other duties not included above, but consistent with the role.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

Qualifications and Education

Job Category

Academic - Research