Research Assistant/Associate

We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant/Associate to join a new research group led by Dr. Claire Bourke (Principal Investigator). Our research focuses on the immunobiology of malnutrition, particularly in childhood.

It is increasingly apparent that nutritional state has a profound impact on immune development and function, can originate in utero and lead to lifelong health consequences. You would join our team to explore the broad hypothesis that immune (dys)function is both a cause and consequence of nutritional state. (Bourke et al, Trends Immunology, 2016; Bourke et al, Frontiers Immunology, 2019; Phiri et al, Science Advances, 2023). Our work spans translational immunology research in the UK and overseas through long-term collaborations with research institutes in Zimbabwe and Zambia, including longitudinal observational cohort studies and clinical trials focused on maternal and child health and gut barrier function. Our goal is to better understand how the immune system functions when malnourished, identify immune biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets to promote immune rehabilitation alongside nutritional rehabilitation.

This post will support establishment of our research laboratory in Glasgow. The successful candidate will have extensive skills in investigating human immunology using primary samples and in vitro models, tissue culture (primary and cell lines), multiparameter flow cytometry, molecular biology (e.g. qPCR, RNAseq), microscopy and imaging techniques. You will be self-motivated in designing and executing experiments and confident with both independent and collaborative work. Experience in analysing combined laboratory and clinical datasets would be a strength in this role.

You will also support laboratory set up and operations, therefore experience of laboratory management activities such as preparation of risk assessments, applications for ethical approval, and implementation of research involving human participants in accordance with Good Clinical Practice, would be an asset.

The ideal post-holder would have an enthusiasm for translational immunology research and be keen to contribute their knowledge and ideas alongside their technical ability as part of our research team.

This post is full time, and has funding for up to 2.5 years with possibility of extension to 3 years on G6

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Claire Bourke, Claire.Bourke@glasgow.ac.uk

For the full job description and to apply online: my.corehr.com/pls/uogrecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=155770

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