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- Tasks: Develop innovative antimicrobials to combat wound infections and conduct impactful research.
- Company: Brunel University London, a leader in health and life sciences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in healthcare by tackling critical infection challenges.
- Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field with experience in biofilm formation and hydrogels.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to inclusivity and career development.
The predicted salary is between 34600 - 42000 £ per year.
The McCarthy Lab has an exciting opportunity for a prospective Research Fellow who is interested in developing novel antimicrobials to tackle wound infections.
Wounds can create significant damage to human skin, compromising one of the key barriers to infection and the leading cause of death among burn wound patients is infection. Even in the patients that survive, infections can be notoriously difficult to treat and can cause lasting damage, with delayed healing and prolonged hospital stays. Biofilm formation at the wound site is a major contributing factor to the failure of frontline treatment regimens. Bacteria forming a biofilm are more resistant to disinfection, the rigours of the host immune system and critically, more tolerant to antibiotics. Wound associated biofilms are also thought to act as a launchpad for bacteria to establish deeper, systemic infection and ultimately bacteraemia and sepsis.
This project aims to build on novel findings by the McCarthy Lab that the artificial sweetener, acesulfame-K can inhibit the growth of prevalent wound pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii. The project involves the development of novel ace-K loaded hydrogel and aerogel formulations and testing their efficacy against acute and chronic wound infections ex vivo and in vivo.
The successful candidate will be responsible for accurate and efficient data generation, data management, collation and the reporting of results to the project lead. The post-holder will need to demonstrate excellent attention to detail, organisational, team working and communication skills and have a keen interest in drafting research outputs for peer-review publication. The successful applicant will work closely with other researchers within the McCarthy Lab and with industrial and scientific partners in other centres.
Applicants must have a PhD in a relevant discipline. Experience and knowledge in the field of biofilm formation is essential. Experience with hydrogels and/or aerogels is also highly desirable. They should be enthusiastic, well-motivated and be able to work both independently and collaboratively. This position is available for 20 months and is supported by the Medical Research Council. Please include one paper or preprint that illustrates research skills that are relevant to this project.
The Division of Biosciences sits within the Department of Life Sciences. It is a large and expanding Division, delivering undergraduate programmes and postgraduate programmes. We work hard to provide a supportive and positive working environment and the Department of Life Sciences proudly holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award. We are also a Disability Confident employer.
Brunel University London is fully committed to creating and sustaining a fully inclusive workforce culture. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities, we particularly welcome applicants who are currently under-represented in our workforce.
Closing date for applications: Friday 24th November 2023 (Midnight)
Interviews will take place the week commencing: 4th of December 2023
Research Fellow in Uxbridge employer: Brunel University London
Contact Detail:
Brunel University London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Uxbridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the McCarthy Lab on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the team and the work culture, plus it shows our genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the lab's recent publications. Knowing their research inside out will help us impress them with our enthusiasm and understanding of their work on antimicrobials.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase our skills! Bring along a portfolio or a presentation that highlights our relevant research experience, especially anything related to biofilms or hydrogels. This will help us stand out during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can tailor our application to highlight how our skills align perfectly with the job description.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Uxbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Research Fellow role. We want to see your passion for developing novel antimicrobials and tackling wound infections shine through!
Showcase Relevant Experience: Don’t forget to include any experience you have with biofilm formation, hydrogels, or aerogels. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, so make it clear how your background fits the bill.
Include a Relevant Paper: As part of your application, remember to attach one paper or preprint that showcases your research skills relevant to this project. This is your chance to demonstrate your expertise and how it relates to our work at the McCarthy Lab!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Good luck!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brunel University London
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest findings related to antimicrobials and biofilm formation. Familiarise yourself with the McCarthy Lab's previous work and be ready to discuss how your research aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to highlight your experience with hydrogels and aerogels, as well as your data management skills. Bring examples of your past research outputs, especially any papers or preprints that demonstrate your relevant expertise.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this role, think of examples where you’ve successfully worked in a team. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to a positive working environment and support your colleagues in the lab.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and the lab’s future directions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
