Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 42 months in the first instance.

Applications are invited for a research assistant to join the group of Professor Melinda Duer at the Department of Chemistry on a research project aimed at elucidating mechanisms underlying vascular calcification as part of an international consortium. Professor Duer has a thriving research group working on the molecular structure and dynamics of extracellular matrix of both calcified and non-calcified tissues. Her group has dedicated, well-equipped biological chemistry laboratories and solid-state NMR spectrometers. In addition, the Department of Chemistry has an open access chemical biology suite providing, for example, state-of-the-art confocal and fluorescence imaging and has superb solution-state NMR facilities and state-of-the-art TEM and SEM microscopes optimized for imaging soft materials and an AFM-IR microscope.

The successful applicant will characterize the mineral phases present in calcified vascular tissues by 2D solid-state NMR methods and will develop standardised NMR protocols applicable across a variety of vascular sample. They will participate in the development of NMR methodologies and other complementary characterization methods applicable to the project goals, such as AFM and optical and electron microscopy. They will develop in vitro models of vascular calcification to examine both collagen and elastin calcification in that context and will develop specific in vitro disease models via gene editing of mammalian cells. They will work as part of a highly interdisciplary international team and will meet regularly with the other team members to discuss the project.

Applicants should have (or be about to obtain) a Masters degree or equivalent in chemistry, biophysics, biochemistry, molecular/ cell biology or other relevant discipline. A strong track record in research and demonstrated ability to work in a team is essential. Experience in solid-state NMR spectroscopy, including spectral interpretation in terms of molecular structures, and in mammalian cell culture, including co-culture and gene editing is highly desirable. Experience in extracellular matrix biochemistry or matrix calcification would also be an advantage.

The Department holds an Athena SWAN silver award for women in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.