Research Fellow – Biosensor Development

About the role

The Research Fellow will lead the creation of a Surface‑Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) biosensor platform for rapid detection of microbial bioburden in biopharmaceutical cleaning validation. The role combines aptamer discovery, nanomaterial engineering, and microfluidic integration to deliver real‑time monitoring solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Design and screen high‑affinity ssDNA aptamers targeting US Pharmacopeia microorganisms.
• Develop Ag/Au nanoparticle‑based SERS substrates and fabricate microfluidic sensing interfaces.
• Validate sensor performance using Raman spectroscopy, microbial cultures, and cleaning validation samples.
• Build data‑analysis pipelines for Raman spectral classification, potentially applying machine learning.
• Lead prototype development, optimise performance, and communicate results through reports, conferences and publications.
• Ensure compliance with Work Safety and Health regulations and manage procurement of specialised equipment.
• Mentor research engineers, graduate students and undergraduate researchers.

Required profile

• Essential PhD in Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Analytical Chemistry or related field.
• Strong publication record in biosensors, nanomaterials, Raman spectroscopy or microfluidics.
• Demonstrated experience in nanoparticle‑based biosensor development or SERS platforms.
• Experience with translational or industry‑linked research projects.

Required skills

• Design of ssDNA aptamers.
• Nanoparticle synthesis (Ag/Au nanoclusters) for SERS.
• Microfluidic device design and fabrication (CAD, SolidWorks, soft‑lithography, PDMS).
• Raman spectroscopy instrumentation and spectral data analysis.
• Machine‑learning methods for spectral classification.