Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Molecular Bacteriology in London

This post is based in the laboratory of Dr Andrew Edwards and is funded by a BBSRC sLoLa award, led by Professor Jessica Blair (University of Birmingham), with co-investigators at the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, Imperial, and the Quadram Institute. This multi‐disciplinary project aims to understand how the host environment affects bacterial accumulation of antibiotics, via modulation of the cell envelope and efflux systems.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a significant and growing global health threat, with recent projections estimating that 39 million deaths will be directly attributed to AMR between 2025–2050. Of particular concern are Gram‐negative bacteria which possess two cell membranes, including a hard‐to‐penetrate outer membrane decorated with efficient efflux systems. These structural barriers severely limit intracellular accumulation of antibiotic drugs, rendering many ineffective. Despite a renewed focus on AMR research, there is still limited understanding of how to develop antibiotics that can cross these membranes and accumulate within bacteria.

Working with others, the appointee will contribute to this project by understanding how the membrane excludes antibiotics under diverse conditions. This will include the generation of mutant strains, lipidomics analysis, biochemical assays and measurements of membrane barrier function.

What we are looking for

• Essential criteria for the role include:
• A PhD in bacteriology or related field. Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant within the salary range £43,863 - £47,223 per annum.
• Experience in genetic manipulation of Gram‐negative bacteria.
• Ability to work collaboratively, experience in experimental planning, troubleshooting, data analysis, and safe laboratory working practices.
• One or more of the following: Experience in studying membrane biology and/or efflux systems.
• Knowledge of antibiotics and resistance.

What we can offer you

• Become part of a multidisciplinary team working on one of the major challenges in antibiotic drug discovery.
• The opportunity to develop your research career at a world‐leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial's sector‐leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector‐leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

This is a full‐time, on‐site post (35 hours per week). This role is for a fixed‐term contract for 36 months. If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Dr Andrew Edwards – a.edwards@imperial.ac.uk.

Welcome to Imperial, a global top ten university where scientific imagination leads to world‐changing impact. Join us and be part of something bigger. From global health to climate change, AI to business leadership, we navigate some of the world's toughest challenges. Whatever your role, your contribution will have a lasting impact. As a member of our vibrant community of 22,000 students and 8,000 staff, you'll collaborate with passionate minds across nine London campuses and a global network. This is your chance to help shape the future. We hope you'll join us at Imperial.