Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join Dr Wojciech Kopec’s research group within the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences. The position is part of the BBSRC Pioneer Award project, Dark Channelome, which aims to discover and functionally classify potential human ion channels by combining artificial intelligence-based protein structural modelling with molecular dynamics simulations.
This research opportunity is suited to scientists with expertise in computational biophysics, biomolecular simulations, protein structural modelling, and scientific programming who wish to contribute to innovative research at the intersection of computational biology and molecular physics.
Position Overview
- Job title: Postdoctoral Research Associate
- Opportunity ID: 11566
- Institution: Queen Mary University of London
- Faculty: Science and Engineering
- Location: Mile End campus, London, United Kingdom
- Contract: Fixed-term, 24 months
- Working pattern: Full-time, 1.0 FTE
- Salary: £42,933–£52,790 per annum
- Application deadline: 8 November 2026, at 23:55
Candidates who are close to completing their PhD may initially be appointed within the junior research training zone at Grade 4, with a salary of £39,187–£39,802 per annum. Their salary will increase following completion of the PhD, in accordance with the stated arrangements.
Research Project and Responsibilities
The Dark Channelome project investigates whether the physical properties of predicted protein pores can reveal previously undiscovered ion channels in humans. By integrating AI-driven structural predictions with molecular simulations, the research team seeks to identify candidate membrane proteins and establish whether their predicted structures support ion conduction.
The successful candidate will generate and evaluate membrane-protein assemblies, investigate pore geometry and hydration, and apply computational electrophysiology to test candidate channels. The work will also examine why certain structurally plausible pores may fail to conduct ions, providing insights into the relationship between protein structure and function.
In collaboration with research partners at the University of Oxford, the researcher will translate computational findings into experimentally testable predictions and contribute to an openly shared research resource.
The position offers opportunities to publish scientific findings, develop research independence, mentor students, and pursue professional development. Researchers will also have access to local GPU resources and Queen Mary’s high-performance computing facilities.
Essential Qualifications and Skills
Applicants should possess a relevant PhD by the position’s start date and demonstrate experience in several key areas:
- Biomolecular molecular dynamics simulations.
- Protein structural modelling and analysis.
- Scientific programming and computational problem-solving.
- Linux-based high-performance computing environments.
- Membrane-protein biophysics.
The successful candidate will be expected to diagnose computational issues, critically evaluate scientific evidence, and clearly explain their individual contributions to previous research projects.
Experience with AlphaFold-based protein structure prediction or ion-channel simulations would be advantageous. Candidates with the ability to integrate computational methods, interpret molecular-level behaviour, and communicate research findings effectively will be well positioned to contribute to the project.
Research Environment and Institutional Support
The School of Physical and Chemical Sciences is a multidisciplinary, research-intensive school within QMUL’s Faculty of Science and Engineering. Its research and teaching activities span physics, astronomy, chemistry, and data science, supporting collaborative approaches to complex scientific questions.
Based primarily at the Mile End campus, the school provides access to laboratories, workshops, shared facilities, and an active academic community. Its collaborative culture extends across university faculties, research institutions, and external partners.
Queen Mary University of London promotes diversity of thought, academic excellence, social justice, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The institution recognises that varied perspectives can stimulate original thinking and advance scientific discovery.
Salary, Benefits, and Professional Development
The university offers a competitive salary, pension scheme, 30 days of annual leave, subject to applicable employment arrangements, and a season ticket loan scheme. Employees also benefit from professional development opportunities, family-friendly policies, work-life balance support, and flexible working arrangements.
QMUL welcomes applications from under-represented groups and women at all stages of life. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process for candidates with disabilities, and flexible working requests may be considered.
Application Information
Interested candidates should review the official job pack, 11566 – PDRA – Job Pack.pdf, for detailed responsibilities, selection criteria, and application requirements.
For further information, applicants can contact Dr Wojciech Kopec at w.kopec@qmul.ac.uk.
The application deadline is 8 November 2026 at 23:55. Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
