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- Tasks: Process water samples and co-develop protocols to isolate environmental bacteria.
- Company: Join a world-leading research unit in tropical medicine at Mahidol University.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health insurance, 20 days annual leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health while advancing your scientific career.
- Qualifications: BSc or MSc in Biological Sciences with strong lab experience required.
- Other info: Ideal for early-career scientists with mentoring and career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU) Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University is a well-established and highly productive research collaboration between the Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, the University of Oxford, and the Wellcome Trust (UK). The unit has been conducting research for 40 years and is recognized as a world leader in tropical medicine research. Our main research interests are pharmacology, epidemiology, diagnosis, pathophysiology and treatment of infectious diseases, which cause illness and deaths throughout this region.
We are excited to recruit a Research Assistant to join our team on the DeEPH programme (Decoding the interplay between Environment, Pathogen, and Host in melioidosis), supported by Wellcome Trust, starting 1 June 2026. Melioidosis is a severe bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, with high mortality in the Lower Mekong Basin. Disease progression - from exposure and infection to recovery - is shaped by complex interactions between bacterial, host, and environmental factors. In this programme, we will longitudinally collect and profile bacterial genomes from environmental sources and patients, alongside host blood omics from patients and healthy individuals in endemic communities. This will identify bacterial and host markers of disease progression and inform public health interventions (e.g. treatment timing and adherence) to improve outcomes. The project is highly collaborative across Southeast Asia and the UK, and we’d love you to be part of it.
Tasks
- Process water samples from piped systems and environmental reservoirs in northeast Thailand
- Co-develop protocols (including plate-sweep methods) to isolate and profile environmental bacteria
- Generate data to map environmental risk and inform public health interventions
This role sits at the interface of laboratory microbiology, field sampling, and public health impact.
Essential Qualifications
- BSc or MSc in Biological Sciences (or related field) with strong laboratory experience
- Excellent attention to detail and accurate record-keeping
- Strong organisational skills
- Excellent communication skills (fluency in English and Thai or Lao required)
- Ability to work effectively in a team
- Openness to giving and receiving constructive feedback
- A collaborative, friendly approach to working in multicultural teams
Suitability & Career Development
This role is ideal for early-career Thai or Lao scientists – whether you’re planning to pursue further training abroad or are returning home after studying overseas. Members of our team have gone on to PhD and postdoctoral training at institutions such as University of Cambridge and the Wellcome Sanger Institute, with strong records of fellowship success and publications. We take mentoring seriously and will support your development toward your next career step.
Terms & Conditions
The post will be based in Ubon (60%) and will rotate to Bangkok (40%) but we are flexible. The salary will be based on MORU scales and will depend on experience and qualifications.
Salary Package
- 13th month salary
- Health and life insurance
- 20 days of annual leave
How to Apply
We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and warmly welcome applications from all backgrounds. Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter explaining your interest and suitability to Dr Claire Chewapreecha; Head of Melioidosis Genomics and Ms Raiwin Mothong.
MORU’s Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
MORU is committed to creating an inclusive culture and a respectful environment, and values diversity and promoting equity for all its members. MORU does not tolerate any form of harassment or victimisation and expects all members, visitors and contractors to treat each other with respect, courtesy and consideration. Successful candidates are expected to adhere to these standards and principles.
Research Assistant (Environmental Microbiology) in Oxford employer: Tropmedres
Contact Detail:
Tropmedres Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant (Environmental Microbiology) in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at MORU on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the team and the work culture, plus it shows our genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the DeEPH programme. Understanding the project’s goals and challenges will help us impress the interviewers with our knowledge and enthusiasm for environmental microbiology.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off our lab skills! Be ready to discuss specific techniques we’ve mastered that are relevant to the role, like processing water samples or isolating bacteria. Real examples will make us stand out as candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the MORU team.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant (Environmental Microbiology) in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in environmental microbiology and laboratory work. We want to see how your skills align with the tasks mentioned in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your strengths!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about the DeEPH programme and how your background makes you a great fit. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Show Off Your Team Spirit: Since this role involves collaboration, let us know about your experiences working in teams. Share examples of how you've contributed to group projects or how you’ve handled feedback – we’re all about that friendly, collaborative vibe!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tropmedres
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of environmental microbiology, especially related to melioidosis. Familiarise yourself with the research being done at MORU and how it connects to the DeEPH programme. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your laboratory experience in detail. Be ready to talk about specific techniques you've used, particularly in processing water samples or isolating bacteria. Highlight any relevant projects or protocols you've co-developed, as this will demonstrate your hands-on skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Communication is Key
Since the role requires fluency in English and either Thai or Lao, practice articulating your thoughts clearly in both languages. Think about how you can explain complex scientific concepts simply, as effective communication is crucial in a collaborative environment like MORU.
✨Embrace Teamwork
MORU values a collaborative approach, so be prepared to discuss your experiences working in multicultural teams. Share examples of how you've given and received feedback constructively, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to a friendly and inclusive work culture.