Research Associate - Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes - 106517 - Grade 6

University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a part-time Research Associate to support a groundbreaking project in microbiology. The role involves DNA and RNA extraction, alongside preparation of sequencing libraries. Ideal candidates will have a BSc or MSc in molecular biology and experience in laboratory techniques. This fixed-term position offers a salary range starting at £33,002, with opportunities for progression. The successful candidate will work in a collaborative environment focused on infectious disease diagnostics.

Qualifications

• Experience in DNA and RNA extractions.
• Familiarity with standard operating procedures (SOPs) in a lab.
• Strong IT skills.

Responsibilities

• Process clinical samples for sequencing.
• Perform administrative tasks related to research.
• Participate in research team meetings.

Skills

DNA extraction

RNA extraction

Laboratory techniques

Teamwork

Time-management

Education

BSc or MSc in molecular biology

Job description

Position Details

Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes, School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906

Grade: 6

Part Time (30 hours per week)

Fixed Term contract up to November 2027

Closing date: 13th November 2025

Background

Applications are invited for a Research Associate Position to help deliver a flagship NIHR funded Biomedical Research Centre project develop metagenomic sequencing for infectious disease diagnostics. The post holder will support two post-doctoral scientists in developing protocols and pipelines to allow us to rapidly perform shotgun sequencing on real clinical samples to identify the causative agents of infections.

The funding is for a 24 month period working part-time (percentage of time can be negotiated) in the Acute Care and Infection theme of the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre. The applicant will be based in the Institute of Microbiology and Infection at the University of Birmingham.

The Research Associate will be responsible for safely processing clinical samples, extraction DNA and RNA from samples, and preparing sequencing libraries for sequencing on the ONT GridIon sequencing platform. Prior experience in these techniques is desirable but not essential, and can be developed by anyone with strong background in lab molecular biology techniques. The candidate will be part of a team of researchers and clinicians working collaboratively to deliver this workstream.

To apply, please upload a cover letter and CV.

We expect to interview shortlisted candidates in person.

Role Summary

The role will involve DNA and RNA extraction from clinical samples and preparation of sequencing libraries on ONT GridIon sequencers.

Main Duties

• Perform processing of clinical samples for sequencing


• Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research


• Participate in research team meetings


• To present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters


• To provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research


• Participate and contribute to public engagement events


• Analyse research data as directed


• Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods


• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines


• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification

• A BSc (minimum) or MSc in a laboratory based molecular biology discipline


• Experience of performing DNA and RNA extractions.


• Experience of working to standardised SOPs in a molecular biology based laboratory


• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively


• Ability to access and organise resources successfully


• Strong organisation and time-management skills


• Cooperative nature and strong teamwork skills, with a willingness to work as part of a large multi-disciplinary team


• Understanding of and ability to contribute to public engagement activities


• Strong IT skills


• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively


• Ability to access and organise resources successfully


• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day-to-day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Further particulars can be found here

Informal enquiries to Abbie Riley, email: [e-mail]

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.