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Department of Chemistry/School of Science
Fixed term for a period of 21 months
Applications are invited for a post-doctoral research associate under the supervision of Dr Stephen Butler in the Department of Chemistry at Loughborough University, to work on a Wellcome Trust funded project developing new fluorescent host molecules for the recognition of biological anions involved in kinase enzyme reactions. The appointee will join a team of PhD students combining expertise in organic synthesis, supramolecular chemistry and spectroscopic analysis of host-guest interactions.
The aim of the project is to synthesise new fluorescent host molecules capable of binding selectively to nucleoside polyphosphate anions in order to monitor, in real-time, the activity of kinase enzymes. The appointee will work in collaboration with the research group of Dr Charlotte Dodson within the Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London. The project will involve the synthesis of a series of host molecules and examining their binding affinity and selectivity towards different biological phosphate anions. The most promising host molecules will be developed into robust, sensitive probes for monitoring the activity of kinase enzymes in real-time. The main focus of the role is the synthesis and characterisation of new anion-selective host molecules, and analysis of their ability to track enzyme reactions using fluorescence spectroscopy.
Applicants should have (or be about to obtain) a PhD in Chemistry and a strong background in synthetic organic chemistry. Experience in supramolecular chemistry would be highly advantageous. The appointees will be expected to give oral presentations on their work, write internal reports and prepare draft publications, and relevant communication skills are required. In addition to their own research, the appointee will take some responsibility for the supervision and training of post-graduate and undergraduate research students.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for a fixed period of 21 months.
The Department of Chemistry at Loughborough was ranked 3rd in the Guardian University Guide in 2017. The Department is active in cutting edge research that highlights key national and international strategic imperatives in Health, Security, Energy and the Environment. The Butler group occupies a modern, well-equipped synthetic laboratory with speciality equipment tailored to the synthesis, characterization and biological study of luminescent host molecules.
Informal enquiries may be addressed to Stephen Butler, email: s.j.butler@lboro.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email will not be accepted.
Application closing date: 18 December 2016
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