Research Associate in Microbiology and Infection
Investigate the multifunctionality of staphylococcal lipoproteins through advanced microbiological, biochemical, and proteomic techniques.
Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with expertise in microbiology, bacterial pathogens, and quantitative proteomics workflows.
Overview
The University of Leicester is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences within the Division of Microbiology and Infection. Funded by UK Research and Innovation, this role focuses on fundamental research into staphylococcal lipoproteins, involving the establishment of mini-bioreactor systems and proteomics workflows. The successful candidate will design and deliver independent experiments, analyze complex datasets, and contribute to scientific publications. Furthermore, the role involves collaborating with technical colleagues, supporting research students, and engaging with external networks and future funding activities.
What you'll do
- Design and execute independent microbiological, biochemical, and proteomic experiments investigating staphylococcal lipoproteins.
- Establish and optimize mini-bioreactor and continuous-culture experimental systems.
- Lead the project's proteomics work and develop approaches to examine linear peptide production and function.
- Analyze complex biological datasets using statistical and bioinformatic methods.
- Disseminate high-quality findings through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and other scholarly outputs.
- Collaborate closely with research assistants, technical personnel, and external project partners.
- Maintain effective laboratory operations and mentor students and junior members of the research team.
- Contribute to research networks, public engagement, and future grant writing activities.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in Microbiology or a closely related discipline
Language: English; excellent written and verbal proficiency
Instruction: English
Publications: Evidence of first-author peer-reviewed publication
- Demonstrated research experience with bacterial communities, microbial biofilms, or class 2 bacterial pathogens
- Solid knowledge of bacterial cell-to-cell signalling and gene regulation mechanisms
- Hands-on experience utilizing bioreactor or continuous-culture experimental systems
- Proven practical experience in protein purification or quantitative proteomics workflows
- Ability to independently design, execute, and troubleshoot biological experiments
- Proficiency in applying bioinformatic and statistical approaches to complex data
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with a collaborative work approach
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-05
Interested applicants should submit their application through the online university jobs portal by the closing deadline. For informal inquiries, applicants may contact Dr. Katrin Schilcher directly via email.
- CV
- Cover letter
Contact
Katrin Schilcher
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