Research Assistant in Oral Microbiology

University Of Leeds (Medicine); Leeds; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Leeds is seeking a motivated Research Assistant (Postdoctoral) in their School of Dentistry. The role focuses on advancing research into the oral microbiome and antimicrobial resistance. Candidates should have a PhD, experience in bioinformatics, and strong collaborative skills. The position offers flexible working arrangements and numerous benefits, including generous holiday leave and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

26 days holiday plus bank holidays

Generous pension scheme

Discounted gym membership

Access to on-site childcare

Travel schemes

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field related to microbiology or related sciences.
• Experience with bioinformatic analyses and machine learning techniques.
• Strong communication and collaborative skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop in vitro biofilm models to study oral microbiome mechanisms.
• Conduct bioinformatic analyses to predict antibiotic resistance.
• Secure research funding and collaborate on innovative projects.

Skills

Bioinformatics analysis

Machine learning techniques

Research funding acquisition

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Tools

In vitro models

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Assistant (Postdoctoral) to join our dynamic and multidisciplinary team within the School of Dentistry's Oral Biology division. This strategically vital role is integral to advancing our cutting-edge research into the oral microbiome and the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This position, funded for three years as part of a recent professorial appointment, offers an opportunity to contribute significantly to a leading research group with a strong track record of impactful publications and successful grants.

Responsibilities

• Develop and utilise state-of-the-art in vitro complex co-culture biofilm models to study mechanisms within the oral microbiome.
• Conduct sophisticated bioinformatic analyses, including the application of machine learning techniques, to predict taxonomic, antibiotic resistance profiles and phenotypes from omic data.
• Contribute to experimental in vitro modelling and advanced in silico analysis, with emphasis on the resistome.
• Design innovative projects, foster collaborations, and contribute to securing additional research funding for continuation, development, and dissemination of high-impact projects.
• Collaborate within the Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, St. James’ University Hospital campus, with potential work at the University of Leeds main campus.

Location and Working Arrangements

Primarily based in the Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, St. James’ University Hospital campus; some aspects of research may require work on the University of Leeds main campus. We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

Eligibility and Visa

Please note that due to Home Office visa requirements, this role may only be suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants if they are eligible for salary concessions. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

What we offer in return

• 26 days holiday plus approximately 16 bank holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – that’s 42 days a year.
• Generous pension scheme options plus life assurance.
• Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
• Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team, and self-development courses including languages, Creative Writing, Wellbeing Therapies and more.
• Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes.
• And much more!

Contact and Application

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:

Professor Thuy Do, Professor of Molecular Microbiology
Email: [e-mail]