Research Associate in Viral Protein - Membrane Interactions

University of Bristol Law School; Bristol; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in the UK seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on a project investigating dengue viral replication. Candidates will utilize SFA and various scattering techniques to explore molecular mechanisms. The contract is fixed until 30 June 2028, providing a competitive salary of £38,249 - £44,128 per annum and a full-time work pattern.

Qualifications

• Candidates must have prior experience with SFA measurements, designing and conducting X-ray and neutron scattering experiments, and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Perform literature searches and design experiments.
• Develop research objectives and proposals.
• Conduct original research.
• Communicate complex information effectively.
• Collaborate with colleagues and attend meetings.
• Use new research techniques.
• Analyze data and interpret results.
• Publish research findings.
• Supervise students and manage risks.

Skills

advanced knowledge of colloids and interface science

experience with SFA operation and maintenance

experience with X-ray and neutron scattering

can work independently and in teams

Job description

The role

The project is funded by a 3-year responsive mode EPSRC-SFI grant on a project titled "Understanding Molecular Interactions Initiating Adsorption of Viral Capsid Proteins on Lipid Droplets (MIrACLe)", led by Professor Wuge Briscoe (University of Bristol), with partners at University of Manchester (Professor Jian Lu) and University of Galway (Dr David Cheung), as well as collaborators at EU and UK Central facilities (ESRF, Diamond, and ISIS).
The project aims to probe molecular interactions underpinning the initial step in dengue viral replication, using quantitative experimental and computational methods in biophysics, soft matter, and colloid science to access molecular structures and interactions at complex bio-interfaces.
The Bristol PDRA (funded till 30 June 2028) will focus on direct measurements using the surface force apparatus (SFA), complemented by X-ray and neutron scattering, to study the molecular mechanisms of dengue viral capsid protein adsorption on lipid droplet membranes. The PDRA will collaborate closely with PDRAs in Manchester and Galway, focusing on peptide design and membrane simulations respectively.
Candidates must have prior experience with SFA measurements, designing and conducting X-ray and neutron scattering experiments, and data analysis.

What will you be doing?

• Perform literature searches and design experiments
• Develop research objectives and proposals
• Conduct original research
• Communicate complex information effectively
• Collaborate with colleagues and attend meetings
• Use new research techniques
• Analyze data and interpret results
• Publish research findings
• Supervise students and manage risks

You should apply if

• You are passionate about applying physicochemical methods to biophysical problems
• You have advanced knowledge of colloids and interface science
• You have experience with SFA operation and maintenance
• You have experience with X-ray and neutron scattering at research facilities
• You can work independently and in teams

Additional information

Contract type: Open-ended with fixed funding until 30/06/2028

Work pattern: Full time/35 hours per week

Grade: I/Pathway 2

Salary: £38,249 - £44,128 per annum

School/Unit: School of Chemistry

This advert closes at 23:59 UK time on 04/08/2025

Interviews are expected on 13/08/25

For informal queries, contact Professor Wuge H. Briscoe at [e-mail]

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