# Postdoctoral Research AssociateUniversity of Leicester · University Leicester, United KingdomPosted 12 Nov 2026Apply on official website Opens jobs.le.ac.ukSalary: GBP 40,704 – 46,970per yearApplication deadline: November 26, 2026 In 14 daysContract duration: 3 yearsEmployment type: Full time## At a glanceGenerated summaryThe University of Leicester seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Sulfur Biology for a full-time, three-year fixed-term position based in Leicester, United Kingdom. The successful candidate will lead an interdisciplinary project investigating how hypoxic Escherichia coli convert cystine into reactive sulfur species and elemental sulfur. Responsibilities include designing experiments combining microbial physiology, genetics, and chemical analysis, utilizing techniques such as GC-MS, LC-MS, NMR, Raman spectroscopy, and electron microscopy. The role requires strong analytical problem-solving skills, rigorous experimental design, and the ability to work independently while collaborating with internal and external partners. Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent experience in microbiology, biochemistry, or related fields. The position offers a salary between £40,704 and £46,970 per annum, along with excellent pension schemes and generous annual leave.Generated from stored offer content. Always confirm details in the official posting.## DetailsPosition type: PostDocDepartment: Department of Molecular and Cell BiologyResearch field: BiologyDate posted: November 12, 2026Contact email: cs876@leicester.ac.uk## About this positionOfficial opportunity text, in English · about 5 min read### About the roleWe are seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate in Sulfur Biology to join the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, LISCB. This , three-year role offers an exciting opportunity to lead an interdisciplinary research project investigating how hypoxic Escherichia coli convert cystine into reactive sulfur species and elemental sulfur. You will take day-to-day ownership of the project, designing and delivering experiments that combine microbial physiology, genetics and chemically rigorous sulfur analysis, while working independently and collaboratively to achieve agreed research milestones.You will integrate microbiological, biochemical and chemical data to uncover the mechanisms and consequences of bacterial sulfur metabolism under low-oxygen conditions. Working with internal and external collaborators, you will contribute to specialist analytical approaches including GC-MS, LC-MS, NMR, Raman spectroscopy and electron microscopy, prepare high-quality publications and present findings at research meetings and conferences. You will also support junior researchers and contribute ideas and preliminary data towards future grants, fellowships and development of the wider reactive sulfur biology programme.### About youYou will hold a PhD, or have equivalent research experience, in microbiology, biochemistry, chemical biology, chemistry or a closely related discipline, with evidence that you have taken substantial ownership of a research project and brought experimental work through to a completed output. You will bring strong analytical problem-solving skills, rigorous experimental design and data interpretation, together with sufficient chemical understanding to reason about molecular structure, reactivity, speciation and mechanism in a biological context. Relevant experience may include bacterial culture, microbial physiology, molecular microbiology, genetics, biochemistry, metabolite analysis, redox biology or analytical chemistry.You will be confident working independently, making sound experimental decisions and maintaining momentum when research is technically challenging or results are uncertain. Excellent communication and collaborative skills are essential, alongside a commitment to reproducible research, data integrity, accurate record-keeping and safe laboratory practice. We welcome applicants who will contribute positively to the inclusive, inspiring and impactful research culture of the University of Leicester, where diversity is recognised as a strength and staff are encouraged to generate ideas that deliver impact.### Additional informationFor informal enquiries, please contact Dr Christopher Switzer on cs876@leicester.ac.uk.As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying. More information regarding secondments can be found hereThe University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Leicester employer: Opportunita
Opportunita is an attractive employer due to its commitment to research excellence and professional development. Faculty members benefit from a collaborative work environment and opportunities to engage with industry partners, enhancing their academic careers.
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We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Leicester
✨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.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like Opportunita often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
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 Opportunita
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at Opportunita. 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 Opportunita.
✨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 Opportunita.
✨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 Opportunita.
