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- Tasks: Join a team developing innovative solutions to combat virus infections in mosquitoes.
- Company: Dynamic university lab focused on insect synthetic biology and pest control.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, inclusive environment, and opportunities for career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in virology and genetic research while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: PhD in biological sciences and experience with transgenic insects and virology.
- Other info: Encouraging diverse applicants and offering supportive facilities for all staff.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The post-holder will join a larger team developing virus-refractory Aedes aegypti through various molecular mechanisms. The core of the project is to develop and test novel piRNA-based systems for suppressing arbovirus infections in Aedes aegypti. Correspondingly, the main component of the role is insect genetic studies (responsible for design and development of new transgenic/gene edited strains, rearing and colony maintenance, phenotypic analysis, experimental design and statistical analysis) and virology (vector-virus interactions, and associated virus propagation, analysis etc).
Additional responsibilities include molecular biology (assisting with design and development of novel plasmids, preparing DNA for mosquito injections, molecular analysis of transgenic strains), communicating progress and data including assisting with manuscript preparation, and training/supervising other staff/students as required. Our lab aims to use insect synthetic biology to develop new, safe, sustainable methods for reducing the harm caused by pest insects.
We have several potential vacancies for projects in this area, for all grades from new graduate to senior postdoc. We are particularly keen to recruit postdocs with the experience, scientific flair and management ability to direct a project team, ideal for an ambitious researcher looking for the next step towards an independent position, or a senior postdoc looking for more responsibility without yet wishing to be a group leader.
Qualifications:
- PhD in a relevant biological science, or equivalent
- Knowledge of relevant research techniques and methodologies
- Good communication skills, ability to write up research work for publication in high profile journals
- Virology experience at least BSL-2, preferably with arboviruses
- Experience of development and analysis of transgenic insects (Grade 6, preferred; Grade 7, essential)
The University strives to be diverse and inclusive - a place where we can ALL be ourselves. Nominal start date is on/before 19 March 2026, but potentially negotiable. This is a full-time (37 hours per week) position for a fixed term of up to 3 years. We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff.
Research Fellow / Postdoctoral Research Associate employer: University of York
Contact Detail:
University of York Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow / Postdoctoral Research Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field, attend relevant conferences, and engage with researchers on social media. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the latest research techniques and methodologies. We recommend practising common interview questions related to virology and transgenic insects, so you can showcase your expertise confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! Be ready to discuss your past research and how it relates to the projects at hand. We want to see how you can contribute to our lab's goals, so make sure to highlight your experience in writing and presenting research.
✨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, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow / Postdoctoral Research Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in molecular biology, virology, and insect genetic studies. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about developing virus-refractory Aedes aegypti and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal!
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since good communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects your ability to write clearly and effectively. Whether it’s your CV or cover letter, we want to see that you can convey complex ideas simply.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of York
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest research techniques and methodologies relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss your experience with virology, especially with arboviruses, and how it relates to the project. This shows that you're not just familiar with the basics but are genuinely engaged with the field.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since good communication is key in this role, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Think about how you would present your research findings or assist with manuscript preparation. Being able to convey your ideas clearly will impress the interviewers and demonstrate your ability to work within a team.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about insect genetic studies and transgenic strain development. Review your past projects and be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will highlight your problem-solving skills and technical expertise.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Leadership
Since the role involves training and supervising others, think of examples where you've successfully led a project or mentored someone. Highlight your management abilities and how you can contribute to the team's success. This will show that you're ready for more responsibility and can help guide others.
