Research Fellow

University of York; York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in York is seeking a skilled molecular biologist to develop virus-refractory Aedes aegypti through innovative piRNA-based systems. This role encompasses insect genetic studies, molecular biology, and virology, ideal for someone with a PhD and relevant research experience. The position is full-time for a fixed term of up to 3 years with a nominal start date of on/before March 19, 2026, and offers flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Family-friendly working arrangements

Flexible working hours

Inclusive facilities and support

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant biological science or equivalent required.
• Experience working with BSL-2 level virology, especially with arboviruses is preferred.
• Proven ability to analyze and develop transgenic insects.

Responsibilities

• Conduct insect genetic studies including design and development of transgenic strains.
• Perform virology and assess vector-virus interactions.
• Prepare reports and manuscripts on research findings.

Skills

Virology experience

Knowledge of research techniques

Good communication skills

Experience with transgenic insects

Education

PhD in a relevant biological science

Job description

The post-holder will join a larger team developing virus-refractory Aedes aegypti through various molecular mechanisms. The core of the project is to develop and test novel piRNA-based systems for suppressing arbovirus infections in Aedes aegypti. Correspondingly, the main component of the role is insect genetic studies (responsible for design and development of new transgenic/gene edited strains, rearing and colony maintenance, phenotypic analysis, experimental design and statistical analysis) and virology (vector-virus interactions, and associated virus propagation, analysis etc). Additional responsibilities include molecular biology (assisting with design and development of novel plasmids, preparing DNA for mosquito injections, molecular analysis of transgenic strains), communicating progress and data including assisting with manuscript preparation, and training/supervising other staff/students as required.

Our lab aims to use insect synthetic biology to develop new, safe, sustainable methods for reducing the harm caused by pest insects. We have several potential vacancies for projects in this area, for all grades from new graduate to senior postdoc. We are particularly keen to recruit postdocs with the experience, scientific flair and management ability to direct a project team, ideal for an ambitious researcher looking for the next step towards an independent position, or a senior postdoc looking for more responsibility without yet wishing to be a group leader.

• PhD in a relevant biological science, or equivalent
• Knowledge of relevant research techniques and methodologies.
• Good communication skills, ability to write up research work for publication in high profile journals
• Virology experience at least BSL-2, preferably with arboviruses.
• Experience of development and analysis of transgenic insects (Grade 6, preferred; Grade 7, essential)

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive - a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

Nominal start date is on/before 19 March 2026, but potentially negotiable. This is a full-time (37 hours per week) position for a fixed term of up to 3 years.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff.