Summary
The Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join the Reisner Laboratory. This two-year, cross-disciplinary project focuses on engineering live cells for semi-artificial photosynthesis, converting carbon dioxide and renewable electricity into sustainable fuels and complex platform chemicals.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Microbiology, University of Cambridge, UK
Key Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) |
| Department | Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry |
| Location | University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK |
| Salary | £33,002 – £46,049 |
| Reference Number | MA50432 |
| Employment Type | Fixed-term (2 years in the first instance) |
| Closing Date | 30 August 2026 |
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Research Area
The role sits at the intersection of Microbiology, Synthetic Biology, and Bioelectrochemistry. The project is funded by UKRI through a Japan-UK collaboration for artificial photosynthetic cell systems and an ERC Advanced Grant on semi-biological domino catalysis. The core focus is developing biophotocatalytic and bioelectrochemical technologies to synthesize high-value chemicals.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Microbiology, University of Cambridge, UK
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Required: A PhD (or be about to obtain one) in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or a closely related discipline.
- Desirable: A strong background in synthetic biology, protein purification, or bioelectrochemistry.
- Track Record: A strong publication history and demonstrated outstanding performance throughout your studies and research career.
- Right to Work: Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria to live and work in the UK.
Job Description
The successful candidate will complement existing expertise in the Reisner Laboratory and bring a strong microbiology skillset to a cross-disciplinary team. Primary responsibilities include:
- Engineering live cells to convert carbon dioxide and other feedstock chemicals into bespoke complex chemicals.
- Interfacing live cells with light-harvesting semiconductor systems to enable semi-artificial photosynthesis of organic chemicals.
- Collaborating closely within a multi-disciplinary team to develop sustainable fuel and chemical technologies.
- Aiming to publish high-impact research outcomes in top-tier academic journals.
How to Apply
- Click the Apply online button on the official University recruitment portal to register an account.
- Complete the online application, ensuring you quote reference MA50432 on your application and in any correspondence.
- Upload the following mandatory documents in the upload section:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Covering Letter
- Publications List
Note: Do not upload any unrequested additional documents, as the university will not be able to consider them part of your application. For queries regarding the application process, you can contact
pa-reisner@ch.cam.ac.uk.
Last Date to Apply
The closing date for all submissions is 30 August 2026.
