Post Doctoral Research Associate

Vacancy terms: Full-time, fixed term contract until 31 March 2028

Salary details: Grade 7 - £39,355 to £45,413 per annum, pro rata if part-time

Hours per week: 37.5

About the role

This Research Associate will play a key role in the UKRI-MRC funded project focused on development of host-directed therapy to remove Mycobacterium tuberculosis persisters. Tuberculosis remains a global health challenge which requires innovative approaches for successful eradication. This project is led by Professor Galina Mukamolova at the University of Leicester in collaboration with Hasanuddin University (Indonesia) and Ubon Ratchathani University (Thailand). The Research Fellow will investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying formation of Mtb persisters in vivo and validate novel drug candidates in several laboratory models. The post holder with work with a research technician and collaborators to achieve project milestones and objectives. They will lead on data acquisition, analysis and writing research papers.

About you

To be considered for this role, you must hold a PhD in Biochemistry or Microbiology and have evidence of leading authorship of high-quality research papers in peer-reviewed journals. You should have experience working with Mtb, including conducting infection studies using cell lines and animals, and developing specialised standard operating procedures (SOPs). Expertise in Mtb physiology, drug testing, host-pathogen interactions, and relevant analytical techniques (such as proteomics, transcriptomics, viability, and resuscitation assays) is essential. A willingness and ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, excellent communication skills, and the capacity to work both independently and as part of a team are crucial for this position.

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Prof Galina Mukamolova on gvm4@leicester.ac.uk

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Advert closes midnight on: 26 March 2025

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