At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research on HIV-1 transcription and latency using advanced imaging techniques.
- Company: University of Oxford, a leading institution in structural biology.
- Benefits: Full-time position with competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities to mentor students and drive impactful research.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in HIV research while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: PhD/DPhil in relevant field with experience in molecular biology and cryoEM.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to manage and carry out the Correlative Imaging of HIV-1 Transcription and Latency in CD4 T Cells project day-to-day. The goal of this project is to establish and apply innovative imaging methods and tools for the structural characterization of HIV persistence.
Aim 1 will establish a dual-reporter strategy in CEM cells to simultaneously label proviral DNA and nascent viral RNA, enabling discrimination of transcriptionally active and silent proviruses and mapping of their perspective nuclear environments through live-cell imaging and correlative cryo-electron tomography. Aim 2 will extend these approaches to physiologically relevant primary CD4 T cells, defining and classifying distinct nuclear structural features associated with HIV-1 latency and active transcription.
You will be responsible for managing the project day-to-day, including both design and action of strategies in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, cell modification (CRISPR) and cellular imaging, structural studies using SPA cryoEM, cryoET and other appropriate methods. You will manage your own academic research and administrative activities and use specialist scientific equipment in a laboratory environment.
Other duties will include carrying out collaborative projects with colleagues in partner organisations and research groups, student supervising, and contributing to the overall development of our programme and preparing for the next stages in research.
It is essential that you hold a PhD/DPhil (or close to completion) in structural and functional studies of virus infections, or other relevant subject. With demonstrable decision-making, problem-solving and planning within a research environment, you must have research experience in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, and cryoEM structure determination. You will have experience in the area of retroviruses and in-situ structural biology including cryoET subtomogram averaging. An ability to drive and lead the research project, manage the day-to-day running and assisting junior researchers is also essential.
This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract until 31 May 2028 and is funded by NIH/NIAID.
Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Correlative Imaging of HIV-1 Transcription and Latency in CD4 T Cells in Oxford employer: Instruct-ERIC
The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and academic excellence. As a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Structural Biology, you will have access to cutting-edge facilities and resources, alongside opportunities for professional development and networking within a world-renowned institution. Located in the historic city of Oxford, you will enjoy a stimulating environment that encourages both personal and professional growth while contributing to groundbreaking research in bacterial membrane biology.
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We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Correlative Imaging of HIV-1 Transcription and Latency in CD4 T Cells in Oxford
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
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✨Show Off Your Research Projects
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We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Correlative Imaging of HIV-1 Transcription and Latency in CD4 T Cells in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Instruct-ERIC. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Instruct-ERIC. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Instruct-ERIC
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Instruct-ERIC. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Instruct-ERIC to drive research projects forward.
