Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed-Term)

University of Nottingham; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university in the UK is inviting applications for a full-time research associate position in fungal biology. The role involves conducting research on mating and gene flow in Candida albicans, with responsibilities including experimental design and writing publications. A PhD in a relevant field is essential. The position offers a competitive salary between £31,387 to £46,485 per annum, depending on skills and experience, with minimum £35,608 for relevant PhD holders.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of microbial laboratory practices and experience with microbial culture.
• Familiarity with DNA extraction, electrophoresis, PCR, and transformation.
• Previous experience working with microbes, especially yeast and Candida species.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research using genomic, molecular, and bioinformatic techniques.
• Study mating ability and consequences of gene flow in Candida albicans strains.
• Develop research methods and contribute to published outcomes.

Skills

Microbial laboratory practices

Molecular biology techniques

Genomic and statistical analysis

Education

PhD or near submission in Microbiology or Evolutionary Genetics

Job description

Overview

Applications are invited to support the principal investigator Dr Jasmine Ono in conducting research in fungal biology, specifically in investigating mating and gene flow of the opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans. This post is part of a collaborative multi‑national Wellcome Trust award involving academic and medical partners in the UK and South Africa, aimed at understanding the biology of adaptation in fungal pathogens.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research using classical, genomic, molecular and bioinformatic techniques to investigate mating and its consequences between strains of Candida albicans.
• Study the ability of strains from different clades to mate, examine post‑mating barriers between clades, and determine the consequences of gene flow for temperature adaptation.
• Work independently and as part of a team, developing research methods and extending the research portfolio.
• Write up research findings and contribute to published outcomes.

Qualifications

• PhD (or near submission of a PhD) in Microbiology, Evolutionary Genetics, or a closely related field, preferably involving fungal biology.
• Strong understanding of microbial laboratory practices and experience with microbial culture.
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, electrophoresis, PCR, transformation, and possessing genomic and statistical analysis skills.
• Previous experience working with microbes, especially yeast and Candida species, is essential and highly desirable.

Additional Information

This full‑time fixed‑term role is available immediately until 31/10/2028.

Salary: £31,387 to £46,485 per annum, depending on skills and experience (minimum £35,608 with relevant PhD). Salary progression beyond this scale is subject to performance.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and full academic curriculum vitae.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Jasmine Ono at [e-mail]. Applications sent directly to this e‑mail address will not be accepted.

The School of Life Sciences holds an Athena Swan Gold Award and is a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2).