Skin Biomarker Research Fellow

Job description

Underneath the skin, there are two superhighways of chemical information. One of these is the blood, which is sampled using a needle, and the chemical information taken from it is used to understand, diagnose and treat disease. The second, the interstitial fluid, contains more detectable chemical signals compared to the blood, but it is not currently used in clinical practice to diagnose or treat disease because it is difficult to sample.

We are seeking a motivated research associate to help develop a new, needle-free prototype medical device. The innovative concept in the device is its use of hypobaric pressure to stretch the skin tissue in a manner that allows biomarker extraction. The initial development will occur using healthy adults as the test subjects and the device will pass through four developmental prototyping phases to optimise its ability to extract biomarkers. The types and levels of biomarkers extracted from the skin will be determined using mass spectrometry and electrochemical detection and these chemical signals will be compared to those in the blood. With the aid of a novel integrated mathematical model of skin stretching developed by the University of Surrey (project partners), the new medical device will be specifically adapted and scaled for use in a parallel clinical study conducted by a clinical team in babies.

This exciting role requires a research associate capable of designing a range of different experiments, executing them efficiently and accurately interpreting their findings. Skills are needed in working with tissues, analytical techniques and biological samples. Experience of 3D printing and CAD design are highly desirable but not essential.

This post will be offered on an a fixed-term contract for 3 years

This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent

Key responsibilities

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.

Skills, knowledge, and experience

1. First degree in a relevant discipline

2. A sound (theoretical and practical) knowledge of an area of chemistry, pharmaceutical science, pharmaceutical analysis, medicine development medical analysis or medical device development

3. Evidence of strong laboratory skills

4. Good communication skills

5. Experience of scientific report writing and data presentation

6. Skills in handling biological samples

7. Skills in analytical assays

1. Skills in product design and operating on computer-aided design CAD software e.g. Fusion 3D

2. Experience in additive manufacturing particular vat polymerization.