Research Associate

About the role

We are seeking a full-time time highly motivated post-doctoral research associate to join the NanoImmunology and Molecular Pharmaceutics group, led by Dr Iris Da Luz Batalha, in the Department of Life Sciences at the University of Bath. 

Our group is currently focusing on the development of nanomedicine-based approaches for the modulation of the immune system. This modulation can be either an activation of the immune system against diseases such as cancer and infections, or an inhibition of the immune system in diseases with exacerbated immune responses, including autoimmune disorders and sepsis. 

Specifically, the successful candidate will be working on the identification and validation of peptide ligands that target antigen-presenting cells (APCs) through their unique metabolic profile using MHC class I-related protein 1 (MR1) presentation, a term that our group coined Dynamic Targeting

Your role within this project will be as a principal researcher responsible for project deliverables, including: 

• Protein Expression and Purification: Independently design and implement strategies for recombinant protein production in bacterial and mammalian systems, troubleshooting challenges and optimising yields. 
• Phage Display: Plan and complete phage display experiments, from library selection to hit validation, contributing to the discovery of novel binding partners. 
• Cell Line Engineering: Direct the development of engineered cell lines, coordinating all aspects from construct design and transfection to clone selection and characterisation. 
• Characterisation of molecular interactions: Utilise a range of biophysical and biochemical methods, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Fluorescence-activated Cell Sorting (FACS), and confocal microscopy, to quantify and analyse ligand-receptor binding. 

Our ideal candidate will have:

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant subject 
• Postdoctoral experience in a relevant research field 
• Established area of expertise in research 
• Experience successfully supervising other staff and students 
• Hands-on experience in protein expression and purification, CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing, lentiviral transduction, FACS, and confocal microscopy 
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written 
• Proven ability to excel at collaboration and teamwork, fostering productive relationships across multiple working groups and institutions 

In addition, the successful candidate will be assisting with lab managing tasks, including (i) equipment maintenance; (ii) ordering, stocking, and keeping an up-to-date inventory of lab supplies; (iii) maintaining a clean and organised lab environment and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations; and (iv) training students and junior researchers. 

As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, we will encourage you to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year. 

This is a fixed-term position for 9 months. 

For informal discussions regarding this vacancy please contact Dr Iris Luz Batalha <icdlb20@bath.ac.uk>

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