Post-Doctoral Research Associate (91452) in Liverpool

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Post-Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join the Functional Genetics Group at LSTM, led by Professor Tony Nolan. The successful candidate will lead gene drive research within the laboratory and manage a new project as part of the Target Malaria gene drive research consortium. The role offers significant scope for scientific creativity, including the development of new research ideas and contributions to future grant applications.

The post-holder will join the Department of Vector Biology, one of the largest of its kind globally, within a vibrant and collaborative research environment. The project focuses on developing gene drive approaches in Anopheles funestus, a major malaria vector that has historically been refractory to laboratory colonisation and genetic manipulation. Building on recent advances in transgenesis and genome editing achieved by our group, this work aims to develop and test gene drive strategies in this important species in collaboration with the Target Malaria consortium.

The successful PDRA will have experience and interest in molecular biology, genome editing, and vector control, and will play a leading role in the day-to-day delivery of this research. Key responsibilities will include:

• Develop and expand genome editing approaches in mosquitoes
• Design and clone new genetic constructs for optimized performance in the mosquito
• Use CRISPR technologies to edit mosquito genomes
• Design, generate and characterise gene drive mosquito lines
• Scientific coordination and delivery of the research project
• Direct the work of a small research team, ensuring progress towards project objectives
• Collaborate with national and international partners across the Target Malaria consortium
• Produce interim and annual project progress reports, in coordination with the PI and consortium partners
• Support and supervision of students and technical staff
• Create training material for, and provide training in molecular and analytical techniques to others in the lab
• Contribute to the design and supervision of student projects
• Support students and technicians in the analysis and presentation of data
• Develop novel research directions
• Develop and advance new scientific ideas, generating data to support future project applications
• Play an active role in the development of research grants and fellowship applications in collaboration with PI
• Disseminate findings through publications and conferences, as relevant to the research

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry or mosquito biology/entomology
• Significant experience in molecular biology and cloning of genetic constructs
• Experience of gene editing approaches, including CRISPR-Cas9
• Experience working with gene drive
• Evidence of preparing publications for specialist/general science journals
• Experience working with mosquitoes or other insects (desirable)

Generous occupational pension schemes, government backed “cycle to work” scheme, affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre, and a range of additional family friendly policies.

Application Process: To apply for the position please follow the apply link and upload your CV and covering letter. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we may close our vacancies early. It is therefore advisable to apply as early as possible if you would like to be considered for a role.

Inclusion is central to our values at LSTM. We seek to attract and recruit people who reflect the diversity across our communities, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, nationality, faith or belief, social background, age and disability. LSTM selects candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience. We welcome conversations about flexible working; and applications from those returning to employment after a break from their careers.

About LSTM: Founded in 1898 and the oldest of its kind in the world, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in tropical diseases. Through the creation of effective links with governments, NGOs, private organisations and global institutions and by responding to the health needs of communities, LSTM aims to promote improved health, particularly for people of the less developed/resource poorest countries in the tropics and sub-tropics.