An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the School of Life Sciences as a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on an insect-vectored bacterial disease in plants. Planthoppers vector this bacterial disease which cause significant problems in parts of Europe. This role is part of a consortium led by Keele University with research partners in the UK and Germany.
The postholder will play a central role in delivering the insect-focused, laboratory components of the project, working with Dr Trisna Tungadi. They will play a critical role in unravelling the insect vector’s ecology and transmission biology. They will work alongside other consortium partners in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research team. Strong communication, organisational, and time management skills are essential.
Applicants should hold a PhD or have equivalent postdoctoral-level work experience in molecular entomology, plant pathology, or related discipline. They should possess strong data analysis and scientific writing skills. Experience in some, but not necessarily all, of the following areas is desirable: rearing insect colonies, designing and conducting insect bioassay experiments, analysing insect probing behaviour using Electrical Penetration Graph (EPG), molecular biology techniques including DNA and RNA extractions from insects and plant materials for downstream analytical applications such as PCR, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR. Previous experience working with planthopper and bioinformatics are advantageous but not essential. The role will involve occasional travels within the UK and Europe for field sampling and research visits to partner institutions.
The Benefits
The University recognises that its success depends upon the contribution and dedication of its talented staff. We have a competitive benefits package available :
- Competitive rate of pay with annual increments within the grade (Keele Spine)
- Generous annual leave entitlement with opportunities to purchase additional leave
- Access to continued personal, professional career development
- Discounted health & fitness facilities on site
- Cycle to work scheme (subject to eligibility)
- Excellent staff pension scheme
- On site ‘outstanding’ nursery
Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above
The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible.
The University
Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £170 million, over 15,000 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research. Information can be found at https://www.keele.ac.uk/about/
Keele University values equity and diversity across our workforce, ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitment we welcome applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.
Interviews will be held: 7 or 11 December 2026
Post reference: KU00005461
Essential requirements
Please see job description and person specification.
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Molecular Entomologist
Company: Keele University Salary: from £39,560 a year, pro rata Hours: Full-time Location: Newcastle under Lyme, ST5 5BG Working pattern: On-site Job type: Temporary Posting date: 5 Nov 2026 Closing date: 22 Nov 2026
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Molecular Entomologist employer: Keele University
Keele University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises community engagement and personal development. As a Keele in Town Venue Co-ordinator, you will enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, and access to professional growth opportunities, all within a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion. Located in the heart of Newcastle under Lyme, this role allows you to be at the forefront of community interaction while contributing to a renowned institution dedicated to innovative education and research.
