Research Fellow in Microscopy of Pathogenic Bacteria

UCL; Greater London; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The London Centre for Nanotechnology (LCN) seeks a postdoctoral researcher to develop and apply atomic force microscopy (AFM) to study the architecture of the outer membrane of pathogenic bacteria. This work sits at the interface of biophysics, biochemistry and microbiology, in a collaborative environment.

Start date up to Oct 2027, with end date 31 March 2029 and potential extension depending on funding. Excellent opportunity for independent, creative researchers with a track record of

Qualifications

• PhD in Life or Physical Sciences with a strong publication record.
• Experience in advanced microscopy, especially in-liquid AFM.
• Ability to work independently and in multi-disciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply AFM to map outer membrane architecture of pathogenic bacteria.
• Investigate how antibiotics disrupt the outer membrane and kill bacteria.
• Collaborate within a Wellcome‑Trust funded programme with Oxford.
• Present findings through publications and talks.

Skills

AFM in-liquid

Advanced microscopy

Microbiology

Education

PhD in Life or Physical Sciences

Job description

About us

In our atomic force microscopy (AFM) laboratory, headed by Prof. Bart Hoogenboom, we have pioneered AFM methods and their application, from atomic‑resolution imaging in liquid, via double‑helix resolution imaging of DNA and high‑speed imaging of protein assembly on membranes, to more recently some of the highest resolution images ever of living bacteria. Based on this microscopy expertise, we have initiated various programmes aiming to understand fundamental barriers that protect bacteria against antibiotics. We have a highly diverse group where lab members’ various backgrounds and expertise complement each other to together do great science on topics of biomedical importance. This is further enhanced by tight, cross‑disciplinary collaborations with multiple other labs with complementary expertise.

The London Centre for Nanotechnology (LCN) is an interdisciplinary enterprise between University College London, King's College London and Imperial College London. In bringing together world‑class infrastructure and leading nanotechnology research activities, the Centre aims to attain the critical mass to compete with the best facilities abroad. The LCN has strong relationships with the broader nanotechnology and commercial communities. As the world’s only such facility to be located in the heart of a metropolis, the LCN has superb access to corporate, investment and industrial partners. It is at the forefront of training in nanotechnology and has a strong media presence aimed at educating the public and bringing transparency to this emerging science.

About the role

The postholder will develop and apply atomic force microscopy (AFM), in conjunction with other methods, to identify the architecture of the outer membrane of pathogenic bacteria, to define the principles of its assembly and growth, and to discover how antibiotics (can) overcome the outer membrane to kill the bacteria.

This will build on recent advances in the lab in discovering bacterial cell envelope architectures and their disruption by antibiotics, e.g., https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2112237118 and https://doi.org/10.1038/s41564-025-02133-1.

Embedded in a larger, Wellcome‑Trust funded research programme with the University of Oxford, this role represents an excellent opportunity for the postholder to develop research at the interface of biophysics, biochemistry and microbiology, in an environment where own initiative is strongly encouraged.

The start date can be flexible, up to 1st October 2027. At present, the end date is set as 31st March 2029, with the possibility of an extension subject to funding.

About you

The successful candidates will have a PhD in a relevant area of Life or Physical Sciences (or at least have submitted their thesis by the start date of the post) with an outstanding track record of research and publications. Experience in advanced microscopy is essential, and specific experience in in-liquid atomic force microscopy and/or microbiology would be most beneficial.

They must have demonstrated ability for creative, original independent research. The person must be adept at multi‑tasking and organising their work to meet deadlines. They must have a proven track record of working in multi‑disciplinary teams.

Customer advert reference: B04-07962