At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and conduct innovative experiments on bacteriophage infection using cutting-edge technology.
- Company: Join Dr Somenath Bakshi's dynamic research group at the University of Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity for career growth, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant interdisciplinary team and publish your findings in top scientific journals.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in microbiology and contribute to groundbreaking antimicrobial research.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields or nearing completion, with experience in quantitative research.
The predicted salary is between 33002 - 35608 £ per year.
We are seeking a creative and highly motivated Research Assistant/Associate to join Dr Somenath Bakshi's research group in the Department of Engineering. The project aims to develop quantitative, physiology-aware models of bacteriophage infection by combining high-throughput single-cell microscopy, microfluidics, image analysis, and mathematical modelling. The work will contribute to understanding how bacterial physiological state shapes phage infection dynamics and how this knowledge can be used to design more effective phage-based antimicrobial interventions.
The successful applicant will work with a unique experimental platform developed in the Bakshi Lab that enables time-resolved measurements of individual bacterial cells throughout the phage infection process. The post holder will be located in Central Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.
The role involves:
- Designing and carrying out quantitative single-cell infection experiments
- Analysing large microscopy datasets
- Developing computational methods to extract infection dynamics from individual cells
- Integrating experimental observations with mathematical and statistical models of phage-host interactions
The successful applicant will work closely with an interdisciplinary team spanning microbiology, engineering, and computation, and will contribute to developing predictive models that link bacterial physiology to infection outcome. They will also be expected to attend local seminars, journal clubs and group activities, present their work at conferences, and publish their research in leading scientific journals.
The successful applicant will have obtained, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in Microbiology, Systems Biology, Bioengineering, Biophysics, Biotechnology, Engineering, or a related discipline, together with experience in quantitative research within their field. Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous: microbiology, bacteriophage biology, quantitative microscopy, image analysis, mathematical modelling, machine learning, or microfluidics. They will also have excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills, and a strong interest in interdisciplinary quantitative biology.
Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.
Salary Ranges:
- Research Assistant: £33,002 - £35,608
- Research Associate: £37,694 - £46,049
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Assistant/Associate in Systems Microbiology in Cambridge employer: Technical University of Denmark
The University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With the flexibility of hybrid working and generous leave entitlements, including 36 days off, staff are encouraged to maintain a healthy work-life balance while contributing to the academic success of students in the Faculty of History.
Contact Details:
Technical University of Denmark Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant/Associate in Systems Microbiology in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Technical University of Denmark. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Technical University of Denmark!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant/Associate in Systems Microbiology in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Technical University of Denmark that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Technical University of Denmark.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Technical University of Denmark does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Technical University of Denmark
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Technical University of Denmark. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Technical University of Denmark's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Technical University of Denmark. This shows your passion for the industry!
