Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed-Term) (MED264025)

University of Nottingham; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious academic institution in the UK is seeking a researcher with a background in Microbiology or Evolutionary Genetics. The role involves investigating the mating and gene flow of Candida albicans, requiring a PhD or nearing submission. The candidate will develop methods and contribute to research publications in a collaborative environment. This full-time, temporary position is available immediately until 31/10/2028.

Qualifications

• Candidates must hold a PhD or be near to submission in a relevant field.
• Must have skills in microbial culture and laboratory practices.
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques is required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in fungal biology focusing on Candida albicans.
• Investigate mating and gene flow between strains.
• Develop research methods and contribute to published outcomes.

Skills

Microbial culture

Molecular biology techniques

Genomic analysis

Statistical analysis

Experience with fungi

Education

PhD in Microbiology or Evolutionary Genetics

Tools

DNA extraction

PCR

Electrophoresis

Job description

Organisation/Company University of Nottingham Research Field Biological sciences » Other Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Country United Kingdom Application Deadline 24 Nov 2025 - 23:59 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Applications are invited to the above role to support the principal investigator Dr Jasmine Ono in conducting research in the area of 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 collaborative partners in the UK and South Africa with the aim of understanding the biology of adaptation in fungal pathogens. The post will use a combination of classical, genomic, molecular and bioinformatic techniques to investigate mating and its consequences between strains of Candida albicans, a common cause of fungal infections in humans. Specific aims are to investigate the ability of strains from different clades to mate, examine whether there are any post-mating barriers between clades, and determine the consequences of gene flow for temperature adaptation. The post holder will be expected to undertake independent research as well as work as part of a team. This will include using approaches or methodologies and techniques appropriate to the type of research, and they will be responsible for writing up their work to contribute to published outcomes.

The role holder will have the opportunity to use their initiative and creativity to identify areas for research, develop research methods and extend their research portfolio.

Candidates must hold a PhD, or be near to submission of a PhD, in a relevant field of Microbiology or Evolutionary Genetics, ideally involving Fungal Biology. They must understand microbial laboratory practices and have existing skills in microbial culture. They must be familiar with molecular biology techniques (e.g. DNA extraction, electrophoresis and PCR) including transformation and possess genomic and statistical analysis skills. Previous experience of working with microbes is essential, with experience of yeast, and especially Candida species, highly desirable.

This full-time fixed-term role is available immediately until 31/10/2028. To apply for the post please submit a cover letter and full academic curriculum vitae.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Jasmine Ono at [e-mail]. Please note that applications sent directly to this e-mail address will not be accepted.

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