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Overview

The Research Associate will be employed using funds from two projects, an EPSRC funded project and a Kidney Research UK (KRUK) funded project. Both projects aim to utilise a novel, highly elastic and adhesive medium chain length Polyhydroxyalkanoate (mcl-PHA) along with a short chain length PHA (scl-PHA) for enhanced processability. PHAs are a family of green, sustainable, biodegradable, bioresorbable and highly biocompatible polymers, produced using bacterial fermentation.

The bioprocess used for the production is normally a fed batch fermentation. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will be required to carry out the optimised fermentation 15L scale and then scale up the production of the polymer to at least 30-100L fermentations. Once the polymer production is established, they will utilise the polymer for 3D printing of PHA-based patches with controlled temporal and spatial drug release in the EPSRC project. The KRUK grant will involve the production of 3D models using 3D printing, melt electro-writing and electrospinning, followed by cell culture work to be carried out using relevant kidney cell types in collaboration with Bristol University.

The applicant will join an internationally renowned research group in natural biobased polymers and their use in medical and eco-friendly applications led by Professor Ipsita Roy at the School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering. The post is suitable for candidates with a PhD and research experience in fermentation, small (around 2L) and large scale (at least around 30L). Any experience with 3D printing/melt electro-writing/electrospinning of polymers and their characterisation will be an added advantage.

Main duties and responsibilities

• You will be responsible for the optimisation of production of mcl-PHA and scl-PHA using a range of carbon sources at shaken flask level up to 7L working volume.
• You will be responsible for the isolation, purification, and characterisation of the mcl-PHA and the scl-PHA
• You will be responsible for the scale up of the PHA production to 30-100L working volume fermentations.
• You will carry out preliminary trials of 3D printing/melt electro-writing/electrospinning of the mcl-PHAs in conjunction with other members of the Roy Lab.
• You will actively participate in all the Roy Lab and Biomaterials Research Group activities and take the lead role when expected to do so.
• You will assist Professor Roy in managing the day to day running of the RoyLab.
• You will participate in undergraduate and postgraduate training activities in relation to project students in the Roy Lab
• You will participate in teaching activities if required.
• You will make a full and active contribution to the principles of the ‘Sheffield Academic’. These include the achievement of excellence in applied teaching and research, and scholarly pursuits to make a genuine difference in the subject area and to the University’s achievements as a whole.
• As a member of staff, you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
• You will carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Further Information

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will consist of an interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks of the closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact cmbe-postaward@sheffield.ac.uk.

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

What we offer

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• Generous pension scheme.
• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways
• paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
  • support for those going through the menopause
  • paid time off and support for fertility treatment
  • and more

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.