Research Assistant in Vaccine Development - FBSMB1302

University of Leeds; Leeds; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Leeds is seeking a creative postdoctoral scientist for vaccine development against Enterovirus D68. The role includes laboratory work focusing on producing and characterising a virus-like particle vaccine. Candidates should have a relevant degree and experience in protein techniques. This position might include flexible working arrangements.

Qualifications

• Creative postdoctoral researcher keen to explore novel in-situ biology.
• Background in vaccine development.

Responsibilities

• Primarily based in the laboratory with project administration.
• Contribute to production and characterisation of a vaccine.

Skills

Western blotting

ELISA

Protein production

Protein purification

Education

First degree/Masters in Biology

Immunology or a closely allied discipline

Job description

Salary

Salary: Grade 6 (£33,951 - £39,906 p.a.)

This role will be based on the university campus. We are also open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

About the role

Are you a creative postdoctoral-scientist keen to explore novel in-situ biology? Are you an early career researcher looking for your first challenge? Do you have a background in vaccine development? Do you want to further your career in one of the UK’s leading research intensive Universities?

Project overview

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a pathogen with pandemic potential, causing sporadic outbreaks and seasonal surges in infections across much of the world. The increasing scale of these outbreaks has become a major public health concern particularly as EV-D68 is associated with acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) and paralysis.

This project is an opportunity for a motivated applicant to work as part of an Innovate UK and SBRI supported project to develop a yeast produced virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine candidate against EV-D68. The ultimate project goal is to move the VLP vaccine towards licensing and commercialisation.

Responsibilities

• Primarily based in the laboratory with potential for some basic project administration.
• Contribute to production and characterisation of a potential future vaccine against an emerging disease.

Qualifications

• First degree/Masters in Biology, Immunology or a closely allied discipline.
• Experience in Western blotting, ELISA, and protein production and/or purification.

Visa and eligibility

Salary Requirements of the Skilled Worker Visa Route.

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

For research and academic posts, we will consider eligibility under the Global Talent visa. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent.