Research Assistant

Queen Mary University of London; Greater London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research university in Greater London is seeking a Research Assistant for a longitudinal cohort study on the nasopharyngeal microbiome. The ideal candidate will have lab experience and expertise in DNA extraction and sequencing techniques. This role offers a competitive salary, generous leave, and the chance to contribute to impactful research while working in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Competitive salaries

Generous pension scheme

30 days' leave per annum

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Experience in DNA extraction and 16S rRNA sequencing.
• Willingness to learn new methods and techniques as required.
• Experience handling clinical samples and research data is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead all lab aspects of the project.
• Coordinate with the PI and other team members to meet project milestones.

Skills

Hands-on lab experience with basic bacterial culture

Molecular biology techniques

Excellent organizational skills

Time-management skills

Communication skills

Education

B.Sc and M.Sc in Biomedical Sciences, Microbiology, or a related discipline

Job description

We are recruiting for a longitudinal cohort study to examine how the nasopharyngeal microbiome changes after starting nursery and how it predicts upper respiratory tract infections in paediatric patients. The role will involve DNA extraction and 16S rRNA sequencing. The research assistant will be expected to have microbiology/molecular biology lab experience and to lead on all lab aspects of the project in coordination with the PI and other study team members.

Responsibilities

Lead all lab aspects of the project, including DNA extraction and 16S rRNA sequencing, coordinating with the PI and other study team members to ensure project milestones are met.

Qualifications

• B.Sc and M.Sc in Biomedical Sciences, Microbiology, or a related discipline.
• Hands‑on lab experience with basic bacterial culture and molecular biology techniques (DNA extraction, PCR, etc.).
• Knowledge of microbiome research techniques, analysis methods, and general concepts.
• Excellent organizational, time‑management, and communication skills, ability to work independently and set/achieve short‑ and long‑term research goals.
• Willingness to learn new methods and techniques as required.
• Experience handling clinical samples and research data desirable but not essential.

About the Institute

The Blizard Institute was established in 2003, one of six Institutes within the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL. The Institute comprises approximately 350 staff based in four academic Centres and one Public Engagement Centre and supports a combined total of c750 postgraduate research and taught students. The Institute aims to deliver excellence in all aspects of research, teaching and clinical service.

About Queen Mary

At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable. Throughout our history, we've fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence. We continue to embrace diversity of thought and opinion, believing that when views collide, disciplines interact, and perspectives intersect, truly original thought takes form.

Benefits and EEO

We offer competitive salaries, a generous pension scheme, 30 days' leave per annum (pro‑rata for part‑time/fixed‑term), a season ticket loan scheme, and a range of personal and professional development opportunities. Work‑life balance and family‑friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and campus facilities are also available.

Queen Mary's commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointment processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability. We are open to considering applications from candidates wishing to work flexibly.

Closing Date