Graduate Research Assistant - Protein Library Lead

Leads the construction of designed protein libraries and investigates the structural dynamics of allosteric proteins using molecular biology, protein production and HDX-MS techniques.

The Role

HLS \ Biosciences \ Living Systems Institute
The Faculty wishes to recruit a Graduate Research Associate to support the work of Dr Jonathan Phillips. The successful applicant will The role is to lead the construction of designed protein libraries and characterise the structural dynamics of allosteric proteins.

The post will include:

Main duties and accountabilities:

1. To undertake research as appropriate to the field of study including:

   • Writing up research work for publication;

   • Making oral and poster presentations at national and international conferences and similar events;

   • Dealing with problems which may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines;

   • Analysing and interpreting the results of own research and generating original ideas based on outcomes;

   • Using established research techniques and methods and helping to advance new ones;

2. To contribute to research-led teaching in a laboratory setting and to be involved in the assessment of student knowledge including assisting in the supervision of student projects and in the development of student research skills.

3. To work in collaboration with colleagues as appropriate to the field of study including:

   • Contributing to collaborative decision making within the research group;

   • Contributing to the production of collaborative research reports and publications.

   • Preparing papers and presenting information on research progress and outcomes to bodies supervising research, e.g. steering groups.

4. To communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically.

5. To use research resources, laboratories and workshops as appropriate and to take responsibility for reducing hazards and for the health and safety of others. Where appropriate, will also be responsible for conducting risk assessments.

6. To engage in continuous professional development and to be responsible for continually updating knowledge and understanding in field of study or specialism and for developing skills.

About You

The successful applicant will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically and prepare proposals and applications to external bodies.

Applicants will be educated to first degree level or possess an equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study or equivalent experience and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes.

Applicants will be able to lead molecular biology and protein production tasks for protein library construction, as well as perform HDX-MS.

About Us

Transform Your Career and Help Shape a Greener, Healthier, and Fairer Future
Join the University of Exeter, a top 200 Russell Group university (QS & THE World University Rankings 2025), excelling in teaching (triple Gold rating, TEF 2023) and leading groundbreaking research in the beautiful southwest of England. 

We are committed to understanding different cultures and perspectives, supporting diverse leadership, and striving for social justice. We encourage applications from all groups underrepresented in our community, including racially minoritised individuals and those with disabilities.

Our inclusive, merit based recruitment processes seek to embrace a diverse set of experiences to ensure colleagues feel supported equitably. With over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 140 countries, we foster a culture where everyone can thrive.

What we can offer you:

•  Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines;

• Support teams that understand the University wide teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly;

• An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics providing specialist support for external engagement and development;

• Our Exeter Academic initiative supports high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career;

•  A multitude of staff benefits including sector leading benefits around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay), and a Fertility Treatment Policy;

• A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon/Cornwall.