Research Fellow in Synthetic Biology

We are seeking a highly motivated researcher to take a lead role in testing strategies for improving photosynthesis through a novel high-throughput engineering strategy to modify the chloroplast genome (the plastome) in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. This is an Engineering Biology Mission Award project (BB/Y008162/1) funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and involves collaborations with the University of Manchester and University of Edinburgh. The role would suit someone with expertise in synthetic biology, genetic engineering of microorganisms, and genome editing technologies.

You must have a PhD in molecular biology, biotechnology, or a related subject area and proven knowledge of synthetic biology and its application to strain engineering and genome manipulation. Experience in recombinant DNA methods, transgene design, DNA assembly and microbial transgenics is also essential. You will be expected to work as part of a tightly integrated team of synthetic biologists to produce original contributions to the development of the chloroplast of the microalga, Chlamydomonas as a genetically programmable platform for basic and applied studies. Your studies will focus on developing an error-prone DNA replication technology for the chloroplast and using this in forward-genetic screens to evolve improved phenotypes for key photosynthesis enzymes. In addition to developing and conducting the research, you will contribute expertise to the overall research effort in the Purton group. You will also communicate results as scientific papers in

Biosciences is one of the world's foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL, undertaking a significant amount of research and teaching. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Computational modelling approaches are frequently used alongside experimental research programmes and much of our research crosses traditional boundaries, including the relationship of biodiversity to the health of the planet. Activity is underpinned by high calibre science technology platforms and state of the art equipment. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Algal Biotechnology Group headed by Professor Saul Purton. The successful applicant will join a pioneering research effort focussed on developing the chloroplast of the model alga Chlamydomonas as an advance platform for engineering biology., Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality.

You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion

This is role is until July 31st 2026 in the first instance.

Salary for Research Fellow is grade 7 (£42,099 - £45,521 per annum inclusive of London Allowance).

If a PhD has yet to be awarded, initial appointment will be at Research Assistant Grade 6B (salary £37,332 - £39,980 per annum) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis (including corrections).

This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff., leading journals, and as scientific presentations at national and international conferences.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:

• 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days)


• Additional 5 days' annual leave purchase scheme


• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)


• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan


• Immigration loan


• Relocation scheme for certain posts


• On-Site nursery


• On-site gym


• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay


• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service


• Discounted medical insurance