Research Associate

Overview

The University of Leicester is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, specifically within the Division of Microbiology and Infection. This UK Research and Innovation-funded position involves conducting fundamental research into the multifunctionality of staphylococcal lipoproteins. The appointee will establish and optimise mini-bioreactor experimental systems, lead proteomics work on the project, and develop approaches to investigate the production and function of linear peptides.

What you get

The role offers a salary between £40,704 and £46,970 per annum, corresponding to Grade 7. The position is full-time, working 37.5 hours per week on a fixed-term basis until 31st March 2030. Existing staff members may also be considered for the role on a seconded basis following discussion with their line manager.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a PhD in Microbiology or a closely related discipline and provide evidence of first-author peer-reviewed publication. Applicants need relevant experience working with bacterial communities and interactions, microbial biofilms, or class 2 bacterial pathogens, along with knowledge of bacterial cell-to-cell signalling and gene regulation. Additionally, candidates must have practical experience using bioreactor or continuous-culture systems and protein purification or quantitative proteomics workflows. Familiarity with mass spectrometry and the interpretation of its datasets is advantageous. The successful candidate will possess the ability to design and deliver research independently, apply bioinformatic and statistical approaches to complex biological data, solve experimental problems, and communicate effectively in both written and verbal formats.