Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team exploring microbial evolution and antibiotic resistance.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a diverse and inclusive institution committed to innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in microbiology and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Qualifications: PhD in microbiology or related field, with experience in molecular experimentation.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and collaboration with leading experts.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Position Details
Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes, School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to January 2029
Closing date: 22 October 2025
Background
This exciting BBSRC-funded project will explore the impact of biofilm growth on the evolution of plasmid-mediated AMR and hyper-virulence in Klebsiella pneumoniae. The Research Fellow will be a member of Dr. Michelle Buckner’s lab, which sits within the School of Infection, Inflammation, and Immunology, and the Department of Microbes, Infection, and Microbiomes. This project is in collaboration with Prof. Jose Bengoechea (LSHTM), Prof. Michael Brockhurst (University of Manchester), and Dr. Jan-Ulrich Kreft (University of Birmingham).
Role Summary
- Working alongside a technician to generate a library of fluorescent bacterial strains/plasmids and characterise phenotypes in biofilm and planktonic cultures
- Contribute to designing, performing and analysing large scale bacterial evolution experiments, including extensive sequencing analysis
- Contribute to designing, performing and analysing in vitro pathogenicity assays
- Work within the specified research grant and contribute to writing bids and generating additional funding
Main Duties
The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Analyse and interpret data
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars, presentations etc
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Undertake management/administration arising from research including drafting of risk assessments and COSHH forms
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, and present research outputs through seminars and/or posters
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
- Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture
Person Specification
- First degree in biological or biomedical sciences, and a PhD degree (or near to completion) in the field of microbiology
- Significant experience with molecular and phenotypic microbiology experimentation, along with experience of bioinformatic analysis of microbial genomics data
- High level analytical capability
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project, including assessing resource requirements and use of resources
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
Further particulars can be found here
Informal enquiries to Abbie Riley, email: a.riley.1@bham.ac.uk
We believe there is no such thing as a \”typical\” member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Research Fellow - Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes - 106403 - Grade 7 employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes - 106403 - Grade 7
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Birmingham, especially in the Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the team culture and what they really value in candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the research projects happening in the lab. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the work being done. Bring your ideas to the table; we love innovative thinkers!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present your research findings or ideas during the interview. Make sure you can communicate complex information clearly and confidently – it’s a key part of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at the University of Birmingham.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes - 106403 - Grade 7
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Fellow position. Highlight your relevant experience in microbiology and any specific projects that align with the work of Dr. Michelle Buckner’s lab. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills in molecular and phenotypic microbiology experimentation can contribute to our exciting BBSRC-funded project. We love seeing candidates who can clearly communicate their expertise!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to explain your research objectives and past experiences. We appreciate clarity and want to understand your journey without any fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of the project you'll be working on, especially the impact of biofilm growth on Klebsiella pneumoniae. Familiarise yourself with recent studies and findings in this area, as it will show your genuine interest and understanding during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with molecular and phenotypic microbiology experimentation. Prepare examples of past projects where you’ve successfully applied these skills, particularly any that involved bioinformatics or large-scale bacterial evolution experiments.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that assess your analytical capabilities and problem-solving skills. Brush up on your knowledge of sequencing analysis and pathogenicity assays, and think about how you would approach designing and interpreting these experiments.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since this role involves working with a team and contributing to research bids, highlight your teamwork experiences. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in the past and how you can contribute to fostering an inclusive working culture.
