Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Reading; Reading; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Reading invites applications for a 10-month fixed-term Postdoctoral Research Associate position focused on developing rapid diagnostic kits for snakebite envenoming. The role involves innovative research in a dynamic field, requiring a PhD and expertise in immunotechnology and related techniques. Candidates will work closely with leading researchers and contribute to addressing urgent clinical needs.

Qualifications

• PhD in biomedical sciences, preferably in immunotechnology.
• Experience with clinical samples and immunoassays.
• Publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

• Develop rapid diagnostic kits using lateral flow assay technology.
• Collaborate with research groups and external partners.
• Analyze and produce high-quality experimental data.

Skills

Cell and molecular biology research

Immunoassays

Data analysis

Communication skills

Education

PhD in biomedical sciences

Tools

ELISA

Lateral flow assay

Antibody production

Antibody purification

Job description

Full Time, Fixed Term Role

The closing date for applications is 23.59 on 2nd July 2025

By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. Successful candidates not already holding a Skilled Worker visa issued before 4th April 2024 will need to have a relevant PhD qualification or qualify as a new entrant before being able to be sponsored. There is further information about visas on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

Applications are invited for a 10 months fixed term Postdoctoral Research Associate position to develop rapid diagnostic kits using lateral flow assay technology for the detection of Russell’s viper venom in biological/clinical samples. The post holder will be a member of the Professor Vaiyapuri’s laboratories, within the School of Pharmacy but will work closely with the other research groups within the University of Reading, as well as external collaborators specifically Toxiven Biotech in India.

As a high priority neglected tropical disease, snakebite envenoming is the key focus of current research in our groups. Since there is no diagnostic method available to ascertain the presence of venom in snakebite victims in India, this research is an exciting and dynamic field within snakebites and venom pharmacology for an urgent unmet clinical need.

This project funded by the Medical Research Council will develop rapid diagnostic tests using lateral flow assay technology as well as other relevant methods to detect the presence of Russell’s viper venom in patient samples such as plasma, serum, whole blood and urine.

You will have:

• PhD in relevant areas of biomedical sciences, preferably in immunotechnology
• Expertise in cell and molecular biology research with excellent experience in immunoassays is highly desirable
• Familiarity and experience with techniques such as ELISA, lateral flow assay, antibody production and purification will be required
• Experience of working with clinical samples
• Ability to produce and analyse high quality experimental data
• Ability to communicate effectively (written and oral), both within a team and to others
• Published peer reviewed research articles in high impact journals

For more information, please contact:

Contact Name : Professor Sakthivel Vaiyapuri

Contact Job Title : Principal Investigator

Contact Email address : [e-mail]

Alternative Contact Name: Dr Harry Williams

Alternative Contact Job Title: Project Partner

Alternative Contact Email address: [e-mail]

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.