Research Fellow in Public Health Surveillance in Bangor

Applications are invited for a Research Fellow in Public Health Surveillance to join Prof Davey Jones in leading the National Wastewater Programme for Public and Environmental Health in Wales. This fixed-term position offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research monitoring pathogens (viruses, bacteria), antimicrobial resistance, and illicit chemicals in water and wastewater environments. The successful candidate will advance wastewater-based epidemiology for public health and environmental surveillance, managing key research activities and translating findings into actionable insights. The role involves shaping the research direction, mentoring Masters and PhD students, and expanding molecular and bioinformatic approaches for detecting novel pathogens across diverse environments including community and hospital wastewater, coastal waters, and rivers.

Location: Bangor campus, with option for some remote work under the Dynamic Working framework (UK-based). Part-time or job-share arrangements may be considered. Applications are submitted through the online recruitment portal. Accessibility accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities.

• Liaise with and support the management of the lab and field operations team.
• Oversee downstream quantification and reporting of microbiological targets and substances of abuse to public health agencies.
• Develop new approaches to quantify, visualise and assess the infectivity of viruses and bacteria in environmental samples.
• Write high-quality journal papers and contribute to grant submissions.
• Help guide the research agenda on wastewater-based epidemiology and environmental microbiology.
• Supervise Masters-level research projects and PhD students.
• Maintain and develop collaborations with stakeholders (e.g., water companies, Verily LLC, DEFRA, UKHSA, Environment Agency, Public Health Wales, Natural Resources Wales).
• Prepare reports associated with research projects.
• Act as the Quality Manager to maintain ISO17025 status of the laboratory.
• Report to Prof Davey Jones as Line Manager.

• Participate in performance reviews and developmental activities.
• Operate in a laboratory environment working toward ISO accreditation of additional workstreams, ensuring quality assurance standards.
• Comply with the University’s equality policies, Dignity at Work and Study Policy, and Welsh Language Scheme.
• Maintain health, safety and wellbeing responsibilities in line with policies and risk assessments.
• Engage in professional development aligned with career goals.
• Comply with relevant legal and financial policies and visa requirements where applicable.

• A PhD or equivalent in clinical or environmental microbiology, or a related subject.

• Strong background in clinical and/or environmental microbiology.
• Experience quantifying human or animal pathogens (DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR/dPCR).
• Experience with bioinformatics tools for metagenomic/amplicon data; familiarity with command-line environments.
• Expertise in environmental viromics and viral taxonomic databases.
• Metagenomic data curation and interpretation of microbial community data.
• Track record of high-quality journal publications and conference presentations.
• Experience working in a team and supervising technical staff; experience with policymakers/regulators is beneficial.
• Good statistical skills and experience with R for large datasets.

• Ability to help secure external funding.
• Experience in wastewater microbiology and analysis of viruses/bacteria by qPCR.
• Metagenomic sequencing of microbial communities; experience in ISO-accredited environments.
• Knowledge of quality assurance procedures.

• Ability to work independently to deadlines and take responsibility for research outcomes.
• Motivation and enthusiasm for project aims; good time-management and organizational skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work in a team.
• Understanding of Health and Safety at work and the bilingual nature of the institution.

• Valid UK driving licence for accessing remote sites and sample collection.

The University is committed to equality, diversity and an inclusive working environment. We promote the Welsh language and comply with Welsh Language Standards. All offers are subject to eligibility to work in the UK and satisfactory references. Visa information and Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) requirements may apply for certain candidates and visa routes are provided for reference. Redeployment candidates with suitable skills may receive prior consideration.

We are an Equal Opportunities employer and a member of the Athena SWAN Gender Equality charter. We are Disability Confident and commit to an inclusive environment. For accessibility accommodations, contact the provided number. Closing date for applications: 20 February 2026.