Research Assistant in Microbiology and Microbial Genomics

Please note, this post is fixed-term until 31 May 2027 and part-time at 0.6 FTE.

We have an opportunity for a highly motivated Research Assistant to join a research team investigating the mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and genetic evolution of zoonotic pathogens, with a focus on Salmonella serotypes derived from poultry and pork production systems in the UK.

This post sits within the School of Agri-food Technology and Manufacturing, in the university's College of Health and Science and will be based at the National Centre for Food Manufacturing (NCFM), Holbeach campus which is about 44 miles from the Lincoln campus.

You will support a Medical Research Council (MRC)-funded research project in collaboration with academic and industry partners, including the Quadram Institute Bioscience, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences (JAAS) and Yangzhou University. This project aims to contribute new understanding to the global challenge of AMR by identifying genetic and environmental drivers of multiple drug resistance in foodborne Salmonella and evaluating the potential of phage-based biocontrol interventions.

We are looking for a researcher with a solid academic and research background in the following areas: microbiology (particularly environmental microbiology and food microbiology), molecular biology, and bioinformatics. You will also have hands-on experience in laboratory-based microbiology and microbial genomics.

You will have:

• Honours degree in relevant subject (1st, 2.1 or equivalent) and/or master’s degree in relevant discipline.
• Practical experience working in Containment Level 2 (CL2) laboratories, particularly with Salmonella and/or any other zoonotic pathogens.
• Demonstrated expertise in antimicrobial resistance testing and genomic techniques such as whole genome sequencing (WGS), metagenomics and metatranscriptomics.
• Familiarity with laboratory-based surveillance, data analysis, and cross-disciplinary research collaboration.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage with both academic colleagues and non-academic stakeholders.

Key responsibilities:

• Assist in field sampling across poultry and pork supply chains (farms, slaughterhouses, processing facilities).
• Conduct microbiological and molecular research on Multidrug (MDR) Salmonella isolates in a Category 2 laboratory setting.
• Conducting antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and support whole genome sequencing (WGS) and metagenomic analysis.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to data analysis and reporting.
• Prepare high-quality scientific publications and contribute to dissemination activities.
• Collaborate with national and international research partners and UK industry partners.

The University of Lincoln is at the forefront of agri-food research and offers exciting career opportunities with the chance to grow and develop to reach your full potential. This project forms part of a major international effort to address one of the 21st century’s biggest public health challenges. You will work within a dynamic research environment with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, industry partners, and opportunities for real-world impact through One Health approaches.

For informal enquiries about this exciting opportunity, please email Dr Bukola Onarinde, Associate Professor, at bonarinde@lincoln.ac.uk.  

Further details:

• Job Description and Person Specification

You can find out more about working at Lincoln, and everything that we have to offer, at: https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/jobopportunities/

We strive for a diverse workforce with the very best employees and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. The University encourages applications from underrepresented groups inclusive of Black, Asian and other minoritised/marginalised ethnic groups, all gender identities and expressions from the LGBTQIA+ community, candidates with a disability, and those that practise different faiths and beliefs, to enhance our One Community where we strive to be kind, patient, and supportive of each other.

Closing Date: 08 May 2025
Interview Date: 20 May 2025

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