Research Assistant (Chemical Biology) 2025

We are seeking a highly motivated Research assistant to join our dynamic Chemical Biology team in the group of Dr Jon Sellars and Prof. Mark Birch-Machin in the School of Pharmacy and Translational and Clinical Research Institute at Newcastle University. This exciting role focuses on the development and physicochemical evaluation of a small molecule mitochondrial DNA protectant. This post is funded by the EPSRC IAA and our industrial partners Croda Chemicals.

As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of research role profiles. These profiles set out firstly the generic competencies and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly, the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.

Key accountabilities

• Contribution to the research programme of the School/Institute under the clear guidance of a member of an academic staff or Principal Investigator
• Use initiative and creativity to analyse and interpret research data and draw conclusions on the outcomes
• Co-ordinate own work with that of others, deal with problems which may affect the achievement of research objectives and contribute to the planning of the project(s)
• Present information on research progress and outcomes to a Principal Investigator or groups overseeing the research project
• Write up results from own research activity and provide input into the research project’s dissemination, in whatever form (report, papers, chapters, book)
• Work to deadlines and manage, with support, competing priorities
• Ensure that personal knowledge in relevant fields of study is kept up to date
• Use research resources (including, where required, laboratories, workshops and specialist equipment) as appropriate
• Maintain academic standards and freedom, and work in accordance with university policies (e.g. equal opportunities, health and safety policies)
• Possible supervision and demonstration duties within undergraduate laboratories and example classes or in teaching small seminar classes
• Undertake relevant training and development activities to develop capacity for taking on wider responsibilities
• Develop, with advice, an awareness of own professional development needs and a personal development strategy

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Some subject knowledge in the relevant area
• Have a background in medicinal chemistry and/or biochemistry
• Good level of analytical skills and the ability to communicate complex information clearly, both orally and through the written word
• The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues
• The ability to use personal initiative and creativity to solve research Problems

Attributes and Behaviour

• Ability to prioritise key tasks
• Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work flexibly and cooperatively with others

Qualifications

• Good honours degree (or equivalent) with some subject knowledge in the relevant area.
• May possess (or be working towards) a higher research degree