At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge project on antimicrobial resistance and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Company: Top-ranked Royal Veterinary College in central London, known for its collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension package, and family-friendly policies.
- Other info: Opportunities for training, international conference presentations, and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in microbiology while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in microbiology or related field; expertise in bacterial genetics or bioinformatics preferred.
The predicted salary is between 40528 - 51470 € per year.
Salary: £40,528 to £51,470 Per Annum Including London Weighting
Fixed Term / Full Time
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Monday 22 June 2026
Interview Date: Tuesday 21 July 2026
Reference: CBS-0124-26
Contract: Fixed-term, full-time, 18 months
About the role
We are seeking an ambitious and motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join an MRC-funded project investigating the mechanisms controlling antimicrobial resistance gene transfer in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a major human and animal pathogen. The successful candidate will work with Professor Jodi Lindsay at Royal Veterinary College, Dr Adam Witney at City St George’s, and Dr Alex McCarthy at Imperial College London, on the MRC-funded project: “Antimicrobial Resistance Gene Transfer in MRSA: Novel Mechanisms, Barriers, and Environmental Controls.” This interdisciplinary project combines molecular microbiology, bacterial genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and tissue culture approaches to understand the mechanisms controlling horizontal gene transfer in MRSA. The postholder will contribute to experimental and analytical aspects of the project, with opportunities to develop independent ideas, publish high-impact research, and present findings at national and international conferences. The post also offers a supportive, collaborative environment with opportunities for mentoring, training, and career development.
About you
You hold or be close to completing a PhD in microbiology or a related discipline. We are particularly interested in candidates with:
- expertise in bacterial genetics, genomics, or bioinformatics
- evidence of scientific productivity, such as publications, preprints, and/or conference presentations
- excellent communication and organisational skills
- the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
Experience in S. aureus, antimicrobial resistance, bacterial genetics, or horizontal gene transfer would be advantageous but is not essential.
About us
The Royal Veterinary College is ranked the top veterinary school globally. Based at the Camden campus in central London, the Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences integrates teaching and research across physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, and genetics. The successful candidate will join a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment with strong links to clinical, veterinary, and academic partners across London. The RVC is committed to supporting the professional development and wellbeing of its researchers and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
What we offer
The successful candidate will benefit from:
- a collaborative and supportive research culture
- opportunities for training and skills development
- opportunities to attend and present at international conferences
- support for career progression and fellowships
We offer a generous reward package and benefits including:
- Competitive and attractive pension package
- Generous 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays/concessionary days)
- A range of family friendly policies, including adoption, maternity and paternity pay and leave.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Free mini-bus service to and from Potters Bar station and Hawkshead Campus
- Free membership to the Sports and Wellbeing Centre located on site at Hawkshead campus (including gym and fitness classes)
We promote equality of opportunity and diversity within the workplace and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
Post-doctoral Research Fellow employer: Royal Veterinary College
The Royal Veterinary College is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative research environment in the heart of London. With a commitment to professional development, generous benefits including 30 days of annual leave, and opportunities for training and career progression, the RVC fosters a culture of inclusivity and support for all its researchers. Join us to contribute to groundbreaking research while enjoying a balanced work-life experience in a prestigious institution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Post-doctoral Research Fellow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the microbiology field, attend relevant conferences, and engage with researchers on social media. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect post-doc position!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the projects and the people you'll be working with. Tailor your questions to show your genuine interest in their work and how you can contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of your previous research, publications, or presentations to highlight your expertise in bacterial genetics or bioinformatics. This will help you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Post-doctoral Research Fellow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in microbiology, bacterial genetics, or bioinformatics. We want to see how your skills align with the project on antimicrobial resistance gene transfer!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're excited about this role and how your background makes you a great fit. Don’t forget to mention any publications or presentations that showcase your scientific productivity!
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We value collaboration, so be sure to include examples of how you've worked effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Highlighting your communication skills will help us see how you can contribute to our supportive environment.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Veterinary College
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the MRC-funded project and the research areas it covers. Brush up on antimicrobial resistance, MRSA, and the methodologies mentioned in the job description. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also your readiness to contribute meaningfully.
✨Showcase Your Scientific Achievements
Prepare to discuss your publications, preprints, or any conference presentations you've been involved in. Highlight how these experiences have shaped your skills in bacterial genetics or bioinformatics. This is your chance to demonstrate your scientific productivity and passion for research.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since the role involves working within a multidisciplinary team, be ready to share examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated with others in past projects. Emphasise your communication and organisational skills, as these are key to thriving in a supportive research environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project, the team dynamics, or opportunities for career development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the environment aligns with your professional goals. Plus, it’s a great way to engage with your interviewers!
