Two ERC Funded Postdoctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) Positions DIACIDAL - Molecular Mechanisms Mediating Antagonistic Diatom-Bacteria Interactions

Contract type: Fixed term (3 years with the potential to extend) commencing from 1 August 2025

Salary: PDRA 1 G3 SP27 £35,116 / PDRA 2 G3 SP27-SP30 £35,116 to £38,249 per annum depending on experience.

Hours: 37 hours per week (Full time) 

The role

We are seeking to appoint two PDRA posts to join the Algal Microbiome and Ecophysiology group led by Dr Katherine Helliwell at the Marine Biological Association, Plymouth. The successful candidates will work on an exciting ERC funded project, DIACIDAL. 

Around half of global CO₂ occurs in the oceans by photosynthetic microbes (phytoplankton), capturing rising atmospheric CO₂, and sustaining marine life. Accumulating evidence indicates that biotic interactions are at least as important as abiotic factors in shaping marine microbial communities, yet we have limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving such interactions. DIACIDAL aims to address crucial unknowns in our understanding of the interactions of one of the most globally abundant phytoplankton, the diatoms, and their bacterial pathogens. Building on new model systems and molecular tools developed within our laboratory, together the posts aim to yield crucial mechanistic insights of factors driving bacterial pathogenicity and diatom defence. 

Position 1: Will focus on bacterial pathogen biology and candidates should have expertise in microbiology, molecular biology, handling and interpreting ‘omics datasets, and expertise in bacterial genetics, see associated job description for PDRA1. 

Position 2: Will focus on algal host cell biology. Candidates should have experience of algal physiology and genetic manipulation, live-cell imaging and understanding of eukaryotic signalling mechanisms, see associated job description for PDRA2. 

We are looking for passionate, team-oriented, independent-thinking individuals with a PhD or equivalent in microbiology, algal biology, bacterial physiology and/or genetics with molecular biology skills. You will also have the experience and ability to lead scientific experimental design and implementation, as well as independent scientific writing. You will join a dynamic, supportive research group valuing trust, responsibility, inclusivity and cooperation, and working on diverse aspects of algal ecophysiology and microbial molecular biology. The principal investigator will provide in-depth training and supervision of the candidates (in microbial physiology, cell and molecular biology as well as advanced microscopy) through regular meetings both 1-2-1 and with the wider team. Additionally, the PDRAs will have the opportunity to present at national and international conferences, develop skills in preparing manuscripts and grant writing, and engage in activities to further their professional development. As well as joining the vibrant MBA research community, successful applicants will additionally benefit from close research ties with University of Exeter academics. 

Salary and benefits

• Salary based on experience (PDRA 2)
• 30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro-rata)
• 3 Privilege Days given by the MBA (used during festive closure week)
• Sick pay
• Pension scheme – the MBA will contribute 10% of basic salary into a defined contribution scheme with staff making a 3% minimum contribution. The MBA will match additional employee contributions up to an additional 5%
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Cycle to work scheme and electronic vehicle lease scheme
• Low-cost bookable parking on site 

For more information on the role please see the Job Descriptions 

Job Description PDRA 1

Job Description PDRA 2

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and seek talented people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives in order to enhance all that we do. 

How to apply

Please email recruitment@mba.ac.uk via the 'Apply' button above quoting reference 0325PDRA1KH or 0325PDRA2KH. You will need to provide three things to apply:

1. Covering letter that outlines your previous and most relevant experience and explains how and why this makes you right for the role.
2. CV of education and employment history along with details of two referees (one must be your current employer). References will not be sought in advance.
3. Confirmation of your right to live and work in the UK*. Non-UK applicants can apply. 

* Sponsorship is available for non-UK applicants for these positions. 

For further information, please contact Dr Katherine Helliwell katherine.helliwell@mba.ac.uk 

Interviews will take place the week commencing 28 April 2025.