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The latest job opportunities here at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË Biochemical Engineering

Research Fellow in Automation of Vaccine Bioprocessing Manufacturing Research Hub for a Sustainable Future
(Apply here)

• Ref Number B04-05299
• Professional Expertise Research and Research Support
• Department »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË BEAMS (B04)
• Location London
• Working Pattern Full time
• Salary £42,099–£50,585
• Contract Type Fixed-term
• Working Type On site
• Available for Secondment No
• Closing Date 08-Sept-2024

About us

This position is a key part of the Manufacturing Research Hub for a Sustainable Future (VaxHub Sustainable), led by UCL Biochemical Engineering and the University of Oxford with a number of academic and industrial partners. VaxHub Sustainable is funded with a £12M grant from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), under its Manufacturing Research Hubs for a Sustainable Future initiative. It builds on the success of VaxHub 1, which was originally formed in 2018 with a grant from the Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) and has played a critical role in making the UK the global centre for vaccine discovery, development and manufacture. Most prominently, VaxHub 1 research underpinned the development of the ChAdOx-1 nCoV-19 vaccine, subsequently licensed to AstraZeneca, with direct benefit to over 180 countries worldwide, including the UK. The vision for VaxHub Sustainable is to deliver manufacturing innovations that enable a transformative change towards sustainable and rapidly responsive vaccine manufacture. In addition to innovative approaches to platform technologies, the Hub will develop manufacturing options that improve product quality and so immunogenicity; streamline manufacturing process development with novel responsive solutions and advanced digitalisation strategies; and will have a focus on enhancing stability and needle-free administration routes. This post is funded for 3yrs in the first instance.

About the role

A new Research Fellow position in automation of vaccine bioprocessing is now available. The position, based in the UCL Department of Biochemical Engineering, will develop pipelines and software routines for automated experimentation to facilitate the digitalisation of experimentation for vaccine bioprocess development. The project focuses on the development of an automated upstream-downstream process development and analytics platform as a non-code integrated technology with a specific focus on resource efficiency and resource sharing. The researcher will be based at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË and will be one of a team of UCL-based researchers working as part of VaxHub Sustainable, as well as several academic and industrial collaborators. The UCL Department of Biochemical Engineering has excellent research facilities including a new bioprocessing suite of vaccines-dedicated laboratories and a full-scale £25m bioprocessing pilot plant. The post-holder will also benefit from modelling, digital bioprocess and biosystems engineering and metabolic engineering expertise in Doctor Duygu Dikicioglu’s group. There will be a high degree of interaction with UCL colleagues and industrial partners so excellent team-working and communication skills will be required. The post holder will be responsible for undertaking original experimental research, reporting on project progress and the preparation and submission of research papers arising from these and related studies.

About you

You will hold a PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., Biochemical or Chemical Engineering) or a related subject area or in natural sciences reinforced with an emphasis on programming skills and/or interest in automation (e.g. Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Genetics), and ideally possess experience in one or more of the following areas biochemical analyses, analytical procedures, molecular biology techniques, programming in a number of languages, application of computational workflows, or process automation. We want to give people opportunity for development and this role is one where we could consider a wide range of different skills and experiences. Whilst all candidates must meet the essential criteria in order to be shortlisted, we actively encourage candidates who may not meet all of the desirable criteria to apply as we consider these to be areas the successful candidate can grow within the role. For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Duygu Dikicioglu at d.dikicioglu@ucl.ac.uk.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below: • 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days) • Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme • Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE) • Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan • Immigration loan • Relocation scheme for certain posts • On-Site nursery • On-site gym • Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay • Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service Visit /work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people and LGBTQI+ people.

Available documents

Research Fellow Enzyme-based Plastics Degradation and Valorisation
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Ref Number B04-05275
Professional Expertise Research and Research Support
Department »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË BEAMS (B04)
Location UCL East
Working Pattern Full time
Salary £42,099–£50,585
Contract Type Fixed-term
Working Type On site
Available for Secondment No
Closing Date 04-Sept-2024

About us

The research fellow will work in the groups of Jack Jeffries in the Department of Biochemical Engineering and Helen Hailes in the Department of Chemistry at University College London. The project is part of the Preventing Plastic Pollution through Engineering Biology (P3EB) Mission Hub, a pioneering initiative aimed at transforming end-of-life plastic waste using cutting-edge engineering biology technologies. Working in partnership with industry, we will impart value into plastic waste, incentivising its recovery and retention, and so reducing the amount destined for landfill, for incineration, or being discarded into the environment.

About the role

The postholder will be required to develop biotechnology-based solutions to identify routes to recycle plastics. This will involve (i) The production and assay of literature, and metagenomic enzymes, (ii) characterization of the best performing enzymes, (iii) The use of evolution strategies, to enhance performance, (iv) use of mechanical and chemical pretreatments developed in related research carried out at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË, to increase biofragmentation/ degradation of polymers including PET and polyurethane (v) valorisation of degradation products towards value added chemicals. The postholder will work in a multi-disciplinary environment with members of the P3EB Hub so excellent team-working and communication skills will be required. The appointment is funded by the UKRI for 24 months in the first instance

About you

The successful candidate will have a PhD degree (or be about to be awarded a PhD) in an area of Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or equivalent subject. Experience in several of the following areas: polymer biodegradation, enzyme discovery, expression and screening, bioinformatics, directed evolution, assay development and compound/polymer characterisation, together with a good publication track record, a demonstrated commitment to excellence, and excellent skills in the lab are required. They will be required to work in a multidisciplinary, collaborative team and have effective written and verbal communication skills in English. Please note, appointment at Grade 7 (£42,099 - £50,585 including London Allowance) is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at Research Assistant Grade 6B (£37,332 - £39,980 including London Allowance) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:- • 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days) • Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme • Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE) • Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan • Immigration loan • Relocation scheme for certain posts • On-Site nursery • On-site gym • Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay • Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service • Discounted medical insurance

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion here: /equality-diversity-inclusion/

Available documents

Lecturer in Downstream Bioprocessing
(Apply here)

Ref Number B04-05306
Professional Expertise Academic
Department »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË BEAMS (B04)
Location London
Working Pattern Full time
Salary £51,474–£60,521
Contract Type Permanent
Working Type On site
Available for Secondment No
Closing Date 17-Sept-2024

About us

UCL is one of the world's leading research universities, renowned for its innovative and impactful research. Rated second in the UK for 'Research Strength' in REF2021, UCL's Department of Biochemical Engineering (UCLBE) is the largest academic bioprocessing group globally. Our mission is to educate future leaders and drive research innovation to solve global health, food security, and climate change challenges, improving quality of life through our outstanding biochemical engineering programs. Our research focuses on advanced biomanufacturing technologies critical to various bioindustry sectors, from biological medicines (proteins, cell and gene therapies, vaccines) to green industrial biotechnology (circular bioeconomy, biorefining, cultured meat). We are proud of our state-of-the-art facilities and strategic partnerships with leading academic institutions and industry consortia, which ensure our leadership in the field and foster continuous innovation and collaboration.

About the role

The Department of Biochemical Engineering is seeking a new Lecturer to enhance our downstream processing disciplines, with a particular focus on bioprocess purification. This role is essential to support the bioprocessing and biomanufacturing of biopharmaceuticals ranging from protein biologics, vaccines, to advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs). The successful candidate will engage in a comprehensive range of activities, including research, teaching, enabling, and knowledge transfer within the Department. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with and complement our existing expertise through interdisciplinary team-based structures, such as the new Manufacturing the Futures Laboratories (MFL) at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË East, and various Hubs. This includes research in digital technologies, modelling, simulation, engineering biology, analytics, and scale-down processes, catering to sectors such as biotherapeutics, vaccines, and cellular agriculture.

About you

We are searching for a new member of academic staff with research focused on the purification and downstream processing of biological products. You should have a record of experimental research providing fundamental insights into downstream operations for biologics, combined with an interest and track record of working with relevant academic and industrial collaborators. A vision for near to medium-term research informed by industry needs and emerging new product classes is essential. You will be responsible for conducting world-class research, securing funding, publishing findings, and contributing to teaching existing or new modules related to bioprocess purification and downstream processing. You will also engage in departmental administrative duties and outreach or enterprise roles as part of your career development and progression. Join us and become part of a dynamic and innovative department, contributing to cutting-edge research and development in bioprocessing. Apply now to make a significant impact on the future of biochemical engineering.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below: • 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days) • Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme • Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE) • Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan • Immigration loan • Relocation scheme for certain posts • On-Site nursery • On-site gym • Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay • Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service • Discounted medical insurance Visit /work-at-ucl/rewards-and-benefits to find out more.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality. You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion here: /equality-diversity-inclusion/

Available documents

Workshop Manufacturing Engineer, Biochemical Engineering
(Apply here)

Ref Number B04-05346
Professional Expertise Laboratory Technical and Lab Support
Department »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË BEAMS (B04)
Location UCL East
Working Pattern Full time
Salary £42,099–£50,585
Contract Type Permanent
Working Type On site
Available for Secondment No
Closing Date 22-Sept-2024

About us

University College London (UCL) is a leading global university. In our biggest development since we were founded, UCL has recently expanded to the new UCL East campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The Manufacturing Futures Lab (MFL) is the largest academic entity at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË East, with nearly 2000m2 of new research and collaboration space within the Marshgate building. The MFL is a cross-faculty hub, bringing together 15 academics from the UCL departments of Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Chemistry. The UCL East Precision Fabrication Workshop (PFW) is manged as part of the MFL and is a new advanced manufacturing facility split over two workshop areas on the ground floor of the Marshgate building. The PFW will provide custom design, fabrication and manufacturing capabilities in support of research and teaching activities using a range of state-of-the-art fabrication equipment. The PFW will support a range of research and teaching activities within MFL and other academic entities at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË East e.g. the Advanced Propulsion Lab. We are now seeking to recruit a team of three skilled Workshop Manufacturing Engineers to work collaboratively under the supervision of our experienced workshop manager.

About the role

The main purpose of the job is to design and manufacture novel experimental devices, which will contribute to the development of new research and teaching initiatives in the MFL/APL departments. You will also provide technical support and assistance to research and teaching staff, aid academics in the teaching of the Precision Manufacturing module, provide technical guidance to students, and work with post-doctoral researchers and academic staff on the timely delivery of equipment. Additional responsibilities include: performing routine maintenance and repairs on workshop tools and machinery to ensure optimal functionality and eliminate machine down time, keeping detailed records of projects including design/drawings and test data to ensure full traceability, adhering to the latest health & safety protocols and guidelines, and promoting a secure working environment for yourself and others. Key themes: technical ability, working as part of a team, troubleshooting and brainstorming ideas to contribute to a collaborative atmosphere.

About you

The postholder will be an experienced prototype engineer with an in-depth knowledge of CAD/CAM and CNC machining. A solid background and proficiency in traditional manufacturing methods(i.e. manual machining) and must possess strong technical/problem solving skills. You must be able to translate ideas into fully functioning prototypes, collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, and be able to adapt to the demands of a busy workshop. You must also be aware of and able to adhere to the latest safety standards and procedures associated with a mechanical workshop. Adaptability, creativity, and a willingness to experiment are essential qualities for success in this role alongside the ability to work collaboratively in line with the ethos at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË East. Full details about the role and what we offer as an employer can be found in the accompanying Job Description and Person Specification.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer other benefits such as: 41 Days holiday (including 27days annual leave, 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days); Hybrid Final Salary Pension Scheme; Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan; Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay; Employee assistance programme; Staff Support Service; Discounted medical insurance.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here.

Available documents

Please visit Work At »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË to learn about further job opportunities at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË.