Research Associate in Interactive Virtual Reality for Protein Design

BRISTOL, CTPosted 17 days ago

Job summary

• Job post source

  This job is directly from University of Bristol

• Job overview

  The Research Associate in Interactive Virtual Reality for Protein Design will conduct computational chemistry and molecular simulation research to design and model protein dynamics and activity, contributing to advancements in biocatalysis, diagnostics, and drug resistance.

• Responsibilities and impact

  The role involves developing and applying interactive virtual reality methods for protein design, molecular dynamics simulations, computational modeling, and collaborating with experimental biochemists to interpret data and improve protein engineering tools.

• Compensation and benefits

  The position offers a salary range of £38,249 to £44,128 per annum, full-time work pattern, and is a fixed-term contract until 30/09/26 with benefits typical of a university research role.

• Experience and skills

  Candidates should have a PhD or near completion in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related fields with expertise in protein design, molecular simulation, and interactive virtual reality; skills in software development, data analysis, and machine learning are advantageous.

• Career development

  This role provides opportunities to develop skills in protein design, interactive VR, software development, biomolecular simulation, data analysis, and collaboration with experimental research, enhancing career prospects in computational science.

• Work environment and culture

  The University of Bristol promotes an inclusive and diverse working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential, emphasizing diversity and inclusion as core values.

• Company information

  The University of Bristol is a leading academic institution with a strong research focus, particularly in the School of Chemistry, which is ranked first in the UK for research excellence.

• Team overview

  The candidate will join the research group of Prof. Adrian Mulholland within the Centre for Computational Chemistry, collaborating closely with experimental biochemists and structural biologists.

• Job location and travel

  The position is based at the University of Bristol, School of Chemistry, with full-time hours and no specific travel requirements mentioned.

• Application process

  Applicants should submit their applications by 31/07/2025 at 23:59 UK time; informal queries can be directed to Prof. Adrian Mulholland via email.

• Unique job features

  This role uniquely combines interactive virtual reality with computational protein design and molecular simulation, offering access to advanced computing resources and cutting-edge research projects funded by the ERC.

Company overview

The University of Bristol's School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience is a leading academic department focused on research and teaching in the life sciences, particularly in understanding how the human body and brain function at molecular, cellular, and systems levels. The school generates revenue primarily through government research grants, competitive funding bodies, tuition fees from undergraduate and postgraduate students, and industry collaborations. It has a strong reputation for pioneering research in areas such as synaptic physiology, neuropharmacology, and sensory neuroscience, and has contributed to advances in understanding neurological disorders and drug development. The school is part of the Faculty of Life Sciences and benefits from state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary partnerships within the university and with external organizations. Candidates should be aware of its commitment to research excellence, innovation in teaching, and fostering a collaborative scientific community.

How to land this job

• Tailor your resume to emphasize your expertise in computational chemistry, molecular simulation, and protein design, highlighting any experience with interactive virtual reality and AI/machine learning applications in molecular modeling.

• Showcase your skills in developing and applying computational methods for protein structure prediction, dynamics simulation, and mutation effect analysis, as these are central to the role.

• Apply through multiple platforms including the University of Bristol's official careers site and LinkedIn to maximize your visibility and chances of being shortlisted.

• Connect with Prof. Adrian Mulholland and other researchers in the Centre for Computational Chemistry on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like commenting on their recent publications or expressing your enthusiasm for their work on protein dynamics and interactive VR.

• Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords such as 'protein design,' 'interactive virtual reality,' 'molecular simulation,' 'computational chemistry,' 'machine learning,' and 'protein dynamics' to ensure it passes initial automated screenings.

• Consider using Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify all relevant job posting channels, and find LinkedIn contacts to network with, allowing you to focus your energy on preparing for interviews and skill development.