At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a multidisciplinary team investigating chromatin regulation in fungal pathogens.
- Company: Dynamic research consortium with leading experts in health and life sciences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, support for creative work, and excellent staff benefits.
- Other info: Beautiful campus in Devon and Cornwall with great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in groundbreaking research on fungal adaptation and virulence.
- Qualifications: PhD in Molecular Biology or related field; experience with fungal genetics required.
The predicted salary is between 34610 - 34610 £ per year.
This full‑time position is available from 1 August 2026 until 31 July 2028. The starting salary will be from £34,610 on Grade E, depending on knowledge, skills and experience.
The Faculty of Health and Life Sciences is recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support the work of Dr. Sandra Catania and Prof. Elaine Bignell. The successful applicant will contribute to a multidisciplinary research programme investigating how chromatin regulation shapes transcriptional adaptation in Aspergillus fumigatus. The project will focus on understanding how environmental signals, such as pH and host‑associated stresses, drive transcriptional reprogramming and how these responses are coordinated at the level of chromatin.
The post forms part of a new five‑centre research consortium led by Principal Investigators from the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, the Research Center Borstel, the University of Dundee and Scotland’s Rural College. Through an innovative combination of evolutionary, molecular, chemical and structural biology approaches, this project will investigate how pH and salinity exposures select for heightened infectivity, particularly in rapidly evolving Aspergillus species.
The researcher will combine genome‑wide approaches, including ChIP‑seq and RNA‑seq, to define transcription factor binding, chromatin states, and gene expression programmes associated with stress adaptation and virulence. The post‑holder will work as part of the collaborative programme and contribute to the integration of chromatin, transcriptional and functional data to define mechanisms of fungal adaptation.
About You
The successful applicant will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information orally, in writing and electronically, and prepare proposals and applications to external bodies. Applicants must possess a PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry or a related field, and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and research methods to work within established research programmes. Experience with fungal pathogen culture (category 2 at least) and fungal genetics is required. A strong interest in chromatin biology and gene regulation is essential, with desirable experience in next‑generation sequencing approaches, particularly RNA‑seq and/or ChIP‑seq, and a willingness to engage with the analysis and interpretation of genome‑wide datasets. Experience in adapting and troubleshooting protocols is also required. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working both independently and as part of a team, with good organisational skills and the ability to communicate complex experimental data clearly to researchers from different disciplines.
Benefits
- Support to pursue intellectual interests and work creatively across disciplines.
- Support teams that understand University‑wide teaching goals and partner with academics accordingly.
- Innovation, Impact and Business directorate providing specialist support for external engagement and development.
- Exeter Academic initiative supporting high‑performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career.
- Sector‑leading staff benefits around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave, paternity leave and a fertility treatment policy.
- Beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon and Cornwall.
Contact Dr Sandra Catania – s.catania@exeter.ac.uk
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Exeter employer: Eurobioimaging
Join a dynamic team at the forefront of ecological research, where your contributions as a Research Technician will directly impact our understanding of wildlife interactions with vehicle headlights. Located in a collaborative and innovative environment, we offer opportunities for professional growth, access to cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to fostering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and scientific inquiry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Exeter
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
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When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like Eurobioimaging often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at Eurobioimaging
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at Eurobioimaging. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at Eurobioimaging.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at Eurobioimaging.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at Eurobioimaging.