Post-doctoral Research Associate in Automated Glycan Assembly

at  The University of Manchester

This role focuses on the application of automated glycan synthesis using the soon to be installed Glyconeer platform to explore the potential of sustainable biomaterials derived from polysaccharides. The Glyconeer platform enables rapid and precise glycan assembly, providing unprecedented opportunities to address key challenges in polysaccharide synthesis and applications. The overarching aim is to develop next-generation sustainable materials with applications in fields ranging from biotechnology to environmental science. The GibsonGroup has a large interest in the interface between biomaterials and glycobiology, including the development of new sensors. [Chemical Science, 2024, 15, 16086; Nature Communications, 2024, 15, 7925; CS Central Science, 2020, 6, 11, 2046].
In particular you will prepare water soluble scaffolds suitable for diversification by chemical or enzymatic means to explore structure-function relationships, including for low-temperature environmental applications.
The successful candidate will work within the Department of Chemistry benefiting from world-class facilities, including the newly built (2023) Chemistry laboratories and the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB). The MIB hosts advanced bioanalytical tools and platforms. The GibsonGroup is exceptionally well equipped, including for example, Biolayter Interferometry, Confocal Microscopy, Benchtop NMR, Flow cytometry, High-content live cell microscopy, size exclusion chromatography, IR, UV-Vis, DLS and more in our dedicated labs.
The GibsonGroup is a positive research environment, and the successful candidate is expected to contribute to the groups research culture, focussed on team work.

The project will involve automated glycan assembly to synthesize and characterize novel polysaccharide-based biomaterials. The candidate will also explore how these materials can be applied to address critical challenges in sustainability and biotechnology and must be willing to learn new biophysical characterization methods. Key responsibilities include developing robust synthetic protocols, performing advanced material characterizations, assisting the PI in developing new funding applications and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
The PDRA will report directly to Professor Matthew I. Gibson. A strong research and publication track record is essential with demonstrated ability to lead and finish (including publishing) projects. You must have excellent communication, presentation, interpersonal and teamworking skills.