Please note interviews will be held on a rolling basis while the advert is live. It is therefore strongly recommended that you submit your application as early as possible. The advert will be closed once a suitable candidate is selected.
As a Research Associate in Motile Vesicle Engineering for Mitochondrial Matrix Delivery, you will join a vibrant, multidisciplinary team developing next-generation synthetic biology platforms to overcome one of the central bottlenecks in mitochondrial genome engineering: getting genetic cargo across the double membrane and into the matrix. You will contribute to pioneering research at the interface of synthetic biology, soft matter biophysics and membrane engineering, leading the development of autonomous, motile synthetic vesicles within an ambitious UK consortium spanning Imperial College London, the University of Birmingham and partner Institutions, funded through the UK's Advanced Research and Invention Agency's (ARIA) Precision Mitochondria programme.
You will take the lead on the design, development, and testing of motile synthetic vesicles capable of delivering genetic cargo into the mitochondrial matrix. You will work closely with collaborators across disciplines, gaining experience in cutting-edge methods at the interface of synthetic biology, soft matter biophysics and membrane engineering.
This position is part of an ARIA-funded Precision Mitochondria programme. As a key member of this collaborative consortium, you will benefit from close interaction with world-class partners working on complementary delivery, editing and transfer technologies, milestone reviews and consortium meetings, and an exceptional environment to advance both your research and career development.
Specifically, you will:
- Design and fabricate motile synthetic vesicles with controlled morphology, topology and membrane composition, optimised for structural stability, autonomous motility and mitochondrial compatibility.
- Implement and quantify biocompatible propulsion mechanisms that drive sustained, directional vesicle motion.
- Develop biological assays using cell-mimetic membrane systems (GUVs with cell-mimic composition), isolated mitochondria and cell cultures, to evaluate membrane engagement, penetration and matrix delivery.
- Combine motility with mitochondrial-targeting ligands to develop a dual strategy of active intracellular exploration followed by selective anchoring.
- Work closely with consortium partners to hybridise vesicle systems with complementary delivery components and contribute to a shared benchmarking and validation framework across the programme.
- Contribute to manuscripts, grant reporting, milestone reviews, and present at consortium and international meetings.
We are seeking a highly motivated, collaborative and forward-thinking researcher. This is a highly practical, hands-on project that will suit someone who enjoys experimental work, is a hands-on problem-solver and finds creative ways to move the project forward.
- A PhD in soft matter/polymer chemistry, physical chemistry, biophysics, bioengineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent research or industrial experience.
- A track record of thriving in vibrant, multidisciplinary, and collaborative research environments, in academia and/or industry.
- Experience designing, executing and troubleshooting complex experimental research programmes.
- Experience with, or strong interest in, active/motile matter, self-assembly, or stimuli-responsive soft materials.
- Experience with synthetic vesicle systems fabrication, membrane biophysics, and functionalisation.
- Familiarity with cell culture and/or mitochondrial biology, relevant biochemical or functional assays for investigating and assessing drug delivery would be an advantage.
- Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset, with enthusiasm for working within a large, interdisciplinary team and multi-institution consortium.
We welcome applications from candidates who do not meet every desirable criterion but have relevant expertise and a strong interest in developing new skills.
- The chance to help create a new class of biomimetic delivery technology, within an ambitious ARIA-funded national programme.
- A supportive, interdisciplinary environment within the Contini Lab, working at the forefront of synthetic biology, biomimetic interfaces, and soft matter.
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
- Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
- As a member of research staff you have 10 development days to use to develop your skills and explore your career prospects
- Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
Please note interviews will be held on a rolling basis while the advert is live. It is therefore strongly recommended that you submit your application as early as possible. The advert will be closed once a suitable candidate is selected.
This is a full-time post (35 hours per week).
This role is for a fixed-term contract for 18 months, with the possibility of extension.
You will be based in the Department of Life Sciences at the South Kensington Campus with visits to White City Campus.
Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant.
If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Dr Claudia Contini – [email protected]
Attached documents are available under links. Clicking a document link will initialize its download.
