Computational Physicist/Chemist (MD specialist)

NANOVERY is seeking a physical scientist with a developed understanding of molecular dynamic simulations, ideally applied to biomolecules/polymers.

Our mission is to provide accurate and reliable solutions for researchers and clinicians to quantify Nucleic Acid analytes. As we expand our team, we are looking for a dedicated scientist with expertise in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to improve our predictive capabilities.

The successful candidate will be responsible for producing and analysing molecular dynamics simulations of chemically modified nucleic acids (around 20 base pairs) to gain helpful insights into key reaction mechanisms that drive NANOVERY’s proprietary technology, Nucleic Acid Nanorobotics (NANs).

The role requires a strong foundation in computational modelling and biomolecular/polymer focussed simulations. You will work closely with an interdisciplinary team of nanotechnologists, developing a thorough understanding of our technology to improve the predictive power of our design processes.

The two computational modelling roles we are seeking to fill are fixed-term contracted as part of 24 month grant project, with the possibility of extending to permanent contract depending on outcomes.

Our Laboratories are based in Newcastle upon Tyne, offering a high quality and affordable lifestyle with great opportunities for exploring the outdoors and participating in culture. We would expect you to commute or relocate for this role to facilitate knowledge transfer and team integration.  

Working with us, you can expect a nurturing environment where you can carve your own career path whilst contributing to the success of an early-stage enterprise. Our team embodies our company values of being ‘pioneering innovators that act with integrity and fortitude’ which have carried us from early technology conception to market entry.      

Key Purpose of role: Improving predictive powers and NAN design in line with company strategy.

What you will be responsible for:

• Independently design, execute, and analyse molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of nucleic acid systems including DNA and RNA structures on relevant length and time scales.
• Analyse simulation data to identify key conformational changes, interactions, and flexibility within nucleic acid systems.
• Model the impact of various chemical modifications on conformational structure and dynamics through MD simulations.
• Use sampling techniques to analyse inter/intramolecular hybridisation and toehold-mediated strand displacement processes.
• Collaborate with experimental teams to validate simulation results and guide experimental design.
• Contribute to the development and optimisation of simulation protocols and analysis methods for nucleic acid systems.
• Maintain detailed records of computational procedures and results.
• Stay up to date with the latest advancements in computational physics and apply them to research projects.
• Work closely with interdisciplinary teams.

What you will need:

• PhD in physical science with molecular focus.
• Strong background in molecular dynamics simulations.
• Proficiency in using MD software packages (e.g., GROMACS, OpenMM, AMBER, OxDNA).
• Experience with scripting languages (Python) for data analysis and automation.
• Demonstrated experience in delivering an independent research project.

Desirable:

• Experience in force-field development for Computational simulations.
• Experience with free energy calculations and enhanced sampling techniques.
• Experience with modelling chemically modified nucleic acids.
• Knowledge of machine learning techniques for analysing simulation data.
• Working in Inter-disciplinary team.
• DNA nanotechnology background.

Competencies:

• Output driven and resourceful, able to move quickly to push projects forward independently.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Enjoys teamwork and has a positive attitude.
• Good interpersonal skills with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Adaptable and able to understand new areas of science.
• Collaborative and open in communication style, persuasive and balanced.

What we offer:

• Competitive salary (£42K - £55K dependent on experience).
• Pension enrolment from start of project.
• Warm and dynamic work environment.
• Team building and social activities.

About NANOVERY

Nanovery was founded in 2018 with a mission is to empower the development of next
generation therapies and diagnostics with our NAN-based platform for quantifying nucleic acid targets.

We look for dynamic, hard-working people who dare to push the boundaries of technology development and are motivated by challenging problems. If you share our commitment to excellence, we would love to hear from you.   

More on Nucleic Acid Nanorobotics (NANs)

NANOVERY are leading experts in DNA nanotechnology. This is an area of science that treats synthetic DNA as a biocompatible material for building objects or performing tasks and computation.

NANs use base-pairing and non-covalent chemical behaviours of this synthetic DNA to create nanoscale devices which perform useful autonomous behaviours, hence the name ‘nanorobot’.

You may imagine a DNA/RNA sequence as an input to our nanorobot, triggering a rapid cascade of reactions between DNA strands that amplify a signal. We measure the output of this using fluorescence using a plate reader, giving a quantitative readout.

NANOVERY is an equal opportunities employer - We encourage people of all backgrounds, genders, and abilities to apply.

Any pre-application queries can be sent to contact Roma Galloway (COO) (she/her) at careers@nanovery.co.uk.

Interview process - First stage: Preliminary call, Second stage: Technical interview and face to face with team.

The deadline for this application is Friday the 20th of April 2025 with interviews being held in the first week of May 2025.

Important information regarding your application

By making this application, you confirm your consent for NANOVERY to hold details of your application and associated personal information strictly for recruitment purposes. NANOVERY will keep all recruitment documentation for 12 months following the job position being filled. The successful candidates' recruitment documentation will be kept in accordance with NANOVERY’s Internal Personal Data Policy.

If you wish for your information to be removed from our records before that date, please contact us stating "Personal information removal request" in the title of your email or by writing to us at NANOVERY, The Biosphere, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5BX.