Research Associate

We are looking to recruit a Research Associate in Mycobacteriaceae Metabolism and Infection:

This is an exciting opportunity for a fully funded fixed-term Research Associate to work full-time to investigate the characterization of an uncharted sterol catabolic pathway in NTM species and evaluate its role in infection. This project will involve working with a team of researchers at Manchester Metropolitan University, engaged in collaboration with researchers from the University of Manchester and other institutions. The project aims to understand the metabolic pathways of NTM species and how they interact with their human host, with a focus on sterol catabolism and its role in infection.

The role

The Research Associate will be responsible for achieving the following specific research objectives:

• Characterize new mycobacterium enzymes proposed to be involved in host sterol catabolism.
• Evaluate the importance of this sterol catabolism for growth and infection.

The Research Associate post described here is critical to the overall success of the project. In this role, the Research Associate will be working on a project that aims to understand the metabolic pathways of NTM species and how they interact with their human host, with a focus on sterol catabolism and its role in infection. The candidate will be responsible for characterizing new mycobacterium enzymes proposed to be involved in host sterol catabolism and evaluating the importance of this sterol catabolism for growth and infection, using complementary approaches (Microbiology, Genetics, and Biochemistry). The candidate will be working in a dynamic environment with state-of-the-art research facilities and will be expected to maintain accurate records of research, prepare research findings for publication, and assist in the supervision of students.

For this, the candidate will be expected to be familiar with interactions that take place between the microbiome and its human host, and in relation to bacterial infections. To fulfill the proposed project, staff with experience in handling microorganisms such as NTM species, or species that are relevant to human health is required. The candidate should have experience in molecular-based methods and knowledge of gene inactivation approaches, such as using CRISPR-Cas9. They should also have experience in performing in vivo studies, which will be analysed using qPCR. Whole genome sequencing and targeted gene sequencing will be used for species identification and verification of accurate inactivation. The candidate will be responsible for producing and purifying to homogeneity all enzymes conserved in the operonic structure, performing enzymatic assays, and using analytical techniques such as GC-MS and LC-MS to define the intermediates in the newly defined sterol catabolism pathway.

You will work within the Department of Life Sciences, which provides state-of-the-art research facilities located in newly refurbished laboratories. The Faculty of Science and Engineering is an exciting and dynamic environment in which to conduct cutting-edge research. 

To Apply and Further Information:

Please review the full advert on our Careers site - https://manmetjobs.mmu.ac.uk/jobs/vacancy/research-associate-7659-manchester-all-saints-campus/7609/description/

Please submit your CV and Cover Letter via the MMU Portal outlining your suitability to the role.

For an informal discussion, please contact; Dr. Rémi Zallot (r.zallot@mmu.ac.uk).

Manchester Met University is committed to creating an intentionally inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We understand the importance of having a diverse workforce and the benefits it can bring to ensuring diversity of thought and innovation in everything we do.

Advert information