Applications are invited for a two-year Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) position in Professor David Fairen-Jimenez's group in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology.
Therapeutic RNAs, including mRNA, siRNA and guide RNA, can regulate disease-related pathways, but their use depends on effective delivery systems. These systems must protect RNA from degradation, promote cellular uptake and endosomal escape, and deliver the RNA to the required intracellular location.
This project will develop porous materials, with a particular focus on metal¿organic frameworks (MOFs), for mitochondria-targeted RNA delivery. It will investigate how framework composition, pore structure, particle size, surface chemistry and biological functionalization affect RNA loading, protection, intracellular release, mitochondrial localization and biological activity.
The successful candidate will lead the design, synthesis and physicochemical characterization of nanoscale MOFs and related porous materials. They will work closely with biological collaborators to study cellular uptake, endosomal escape, mitochondrial delivery and the functional activity of the delivered RNA in relevant cell models. The position is particularly suitable for a materials chemist with strong practical experience in MOF design and synthesis and a proven track record in biomedical applications. Experience in RNA delivery, intracellular trafficking or mitochondrial targeting would be advantageous, although the main requirement is a strong background in developing MOFs for biological or therapeutic applications.
Please quote reference NQ50667 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
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