Rodeo
Get started

The University of Manchester

Research Associate

Manchester
Posted 1 day ago
Sign up to applySee more jobs like this
Get notified of more jobs like this · No spam, ever

How your CV stacks up

1Upload CV
2Analyse CV
3Improve CV

Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role

?%

Applications are invited for the position of 36-month PDRA in the Biological Physics Group, Department of Physics and Astronomy, the University of Manchester.

We are seeking to appoint an individual with research skills in biointerface and biocolloid to undertake a 36-month research project to study the interactions of biocides with microbial membranes using physical and biochemical approaches including neutron reflection and scattering. The successful applicant is expected to have existing experience in surface and colloidal science, antimicrobial research and the techniques, and a proven track record in publication. The role will report to Prof Jian R Lu. The successful applicant would be a highly motivated individual with proven record in conducting membrane based antimicrobial research and a PhD in biophysics, surface science or equivalent.

Along with your application, you should submit a single file containing your CV, list of publications, and research statement (max 2 pages).

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is committed to promoting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Access through contributing to the University’s social responsibility agenda, demonstrating a commitment to its policies, activities and delivery of initiatives including the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women’s careers in STEMM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) in higher education. The Department has held JUNO Champion status since 2016 for its commitment to achieving gender equality which positively promotes inclusivity for all.

Reasons to use Rodeo

I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?

Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.

Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.

Start with a chat, not a search bar

Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.

P

Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme

PwC·London, UK
£35,000/yr

Why you're a good match

Strong

Your economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.

See breakdown
Save jobNot relevant
View details

It searches the market for you

Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.

Why you're a good match

You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.

See breakdown
Strong

Experience fit

Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.

See breakdown
Strong

Only hits

No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status. Appointment will be made on merit and equal opportunities data completed by applicants will not be accessible by the Recruiting Manager and panel.

We support applications from those returning from a career break and are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements.

For further information, please visit http://www.physics.manchester.ac.uk/about-us/equality-and-diversity/

Our benefits include:

  • Generous employer contribution pension
  • 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
  • Ride to work and EV car scheme available

Get help with your application

Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.

Get help applying for this job

For more information, please see University of Manchester Benefits. You can also find information on our Flexible and Hybrid working here.

We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community where we are able, within the law, to question and test received wisdom, express new ideas and explore controversial or unpopular topics and opinions. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy.

Enquiries About The Role, Shortlisting And Interviews

  • Name: Jian R Lu
  • Email: j.lu@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries and administrative support

  • recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk

Technical and job portal support

  • https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

Applications close at midnight on the closing date.

Further particulars (with person specification) linked below.

Trusted by 25,000+ job seekers

“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”

Jessica, London

Get help applying for this job

Location

Manchester, England, United Kingdom

Sign up to applySee more jobs like this