PDRA in Mosquito Physiology and Behaviour

The Role

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mosquito Physiology and Behaviour. This research project is in collaboration with Dr Marcus Blagrove (Liverpool, UK) and Prof Thomas Schmitt (Wuerzburg, Germany), and is funded by the Leverhulme Trust for 3 years. The project will investigate the physiological a nd behavioural mechanisms that Anopheles, Aedes and Culex pupae employ to avoid desiccation when taken out of their aquatic habitat. We will evaluate the timing of survival in various climatic conditions (humidity, temperature), as well as pupal behaviour in response to sensory stimuli that may point them towards water. We will also investigate how cuticular hydrocarbon composition on pupal exuvia aid desiccation prevention and survival.

The successful applicant will be expected to to work independently, be highly self-motivated and self-driven, with clear focus on developing their academic career. The post holder will report to Dr Olena Riabinina, and will be additionally advised by Dr Blagrove and Prof Schmitt. The ability to interact with lab members in a collaborative and friendly manner is paramount. The post holder will design experiments, collect and analyse data, and prepare manuscripts for publication. At least one of the following experiences is essential for this post, while the remaining two are desirable: 1)Experience in designing behavioural assays and setups, and collecting behavioural data; 2) Experience in insect/mosquito colony maintenance; 3) Experience of gas chromatography/mass s pectrometry data collection and analysis. Ability to work flexibly, including on weekends/holidays as required for emergencies and mosquito colony maintenance is essential.

Part of the data collections will be conducted in London, Liverpool and Wuerzburg, thus the ability to travel to and work at these locations for several days to several weeks is required. The post holder will be expected to work collaboratively with the lab members of the three collaborating labs and will be given the opportunity to co-supervise junior lab members (undergraduate placements, summer projects, etc). The post holder will also be given an opportunity to present their work at lab meetings, departmental meetings and events, at national and international conferences, as well as engage with public during public-facing events.

The post is funded for 3 years, starting on the 2nd January 2025 and fixed-term due to the conditions of the funding, received from the Leverhulme Trust. The start date is negotiable. The post is open to international applicants.

The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by Dr Riabinina. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

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