Research Associate in Phage Biology and Bacterial Immunity

Do you want to advance your research career as a Postdoctoral Research Scientist investigating how bacteria defend against viruses? We are seeking a talented and motivated scientist to join our research team investigating the evolution and function of bacterial immune systems. The successful candidate will combine experimental and computational approaches to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying bacterial antiviral defence. Your findings will have profound implications for understanding phage–host dynamics and the development of phage therapy and novel biotechnological tools.

What you would be doing

• Lead independent research projects investigating the molecular mechanisms of bacterial immune systems, spanning phage biology, bacterial genetics, biochemistry, and computational biology.
• Discover and characterise novel bacterial defence systems through systematic data mining, functional screening, and mechanistic studies, integrating experimental and computational approaches to understand how these systems evolve and function at the molecular level.
• Contribute to high-impact publications in leading scientific journals and presentations at international conferences.
• Mentor and support junior researchers within the team.

What we are looking for

• A strong background in microbiology, molecular biology, bacteriology, or phage biology.
• Experience with bacterial genetics, bioinformatics, biochemistry, and bioinformatics (one or more areas).
• Ability to design and conduct independent research projects, from experimental design to data analysis, interpretation, and publication.
• Expertise in studying phage–host interactions, ideally characterizing bacterial anti-phage defence systems.
• Experience with phage-based experiments, microbial genetics, bacterial cultivation, phage infection assays, or high-throughput screening.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics pipelines, sequencing-based approaches, and the ability to analyse and interpret complex datasets.
• Experience in protein and/or nucleic acid biochemistry, enzymology, structural biology, or related approaches to investigate molecular mechanisms.
• A strong publication record appropriate to the career stage, preferably in bacterial defence systems, phage biology, microbiology, or related areas.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across disciplines.
• Proven track record in supervising students.
• A creative, ambitious, and collegial mindset, with enthusiasm for developing new ideas and contributing to a growing research team.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• As a member of research staff, you have 10 development days to use to develop your skills and explore your career prospects.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

This is a full-time post. This role is for a fixed-term contract for 24 months. Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant within the salary range £43,863 - £47,223 per annum.

Equal Opportunity

We work towards equality of opportunity, to eliminating discrimination, and to creating an inclusive working environment for all. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries, and are committed to employing a team that has diverse skills, experiences and abilities.

Proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. We welcome applications from the Armed Forces community.