Research Fellow (109890-1224)

This is a full time fixed-term contract finishing no later than 30th September 2027.

This interdisciplinary project is based at the University of Warwick (Engineering, Chemistry), in collaboration with the lead organisation Keele University (School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering), University of Birmingham (School of Geography, Earth, and Environmental Sciences), and in partnership with Newcastle University, and the University of Texas at San Antonio.

The School of Engineering is currently recruiting a Research Fellow to undertake experimental research, including evaluation of isotopes in pathways to nanoparticle formation, for the EPSRC-funded project EP/X031179/1 entitled "Probing the origin and evolution of low-oxidation state iron and copper nanoparticles in the brain" https://gtr.ukri.org/projects?ref=EP%2FX031179%2F1 with investigators Professor Joanna Collingwood and Dr Jake Brooks (Engineering), and Professor Peter Sadler FRS and Professor Peter O'Connor (Chemistry).

The aim of this project is to investigate the formation, evolution, and stabilisation of low-oxidation-state nanoparticles in the brain, considering source metal precursors of both biological and synthetic/environmental origin, and to assess how these chemically reactive nanoparticles are connected to the accumulation of protein deposits which are hallmarks of brain ageing and neurodegenerative disease.

You will engage in both independent and collaborative research, developing and applying mass spectrometry sample preparation and analysis techniques to investigate metal interactions with peptides, proteins, and other biomolecules such as lipids. In particular you will investigate isotope trafficking in biological materials, spanning from well-defined in-vitro systems to the human brain.

Additionally, you will prepare and characterise nanoparticles of both synthetic and biogenic origin, employing diverse analytical experimental and computational methods to uncover pathways to their formation and transformation within physiological environments.

Your role will include participating in synchrotron experiments at both UK and international facilities, as well as collaborating with the project team on histology and microscopy characterisation of the samples.

Additionally, you will have the opportunity to co-supervise junior team members, playing a key role in their development and the overall progress of the project.

Under the guidance of your line manager, you will address management and administrative tasks within your remit, helping the team achieve high-quality, timely research outcomes while upholding research integrity and prioritising health, safety, and wellbeing.

You will be responsible for preparing and presenting regular project reports to the team, ensuring that objectives are achieved, and deadlines are met.

You will actively contribute to organising and participating in project meetings, fostering productive interactions with partners and collaborators.

Your role will include drafting your research findings for publication and collaborating with project partners to produce joint publications.