Research Fellow in Microscopy of Pathogenic Bacteria

This Research Fellow position at the London Centre for Nanotechnology (LCN) focuses on applying atomic force microscopy (AFM) to investigate the structural architecture of pathogenic bacterial outer membranes, their assembly principles, and how antibiotics interact with these barriers. Led by Prof. Bart Hoogenboom, the role integrates biophysics, biochemistry, and microbiology to uncover fundamental mechanisms of bacterial antibiotic resistance. The successful candidate will contribute to a Wellcome Trust-funded project in collaboration with the University of Oxford, working in a multidisciplinary environment that encourages independent research and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The position offers a flexible start date (up to October 1, 2027) and a fixed-term contract until March 31, 2029, with potential extension.

• Develop and apply advanced atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques to study the architecture of pathogenic bacterial outer membranes.
• Investigate the principles of bacterial cell envelope assembly and growth using AFM and complementary methods.
• Explore how antibiotics interact with bacterial outer membranes to overcome resistance barriers.
• Collaborate with researchers at the University of Oxford within a Wellcome Trust-funded programme.
• Conduct independent research with strong emphasis on originality and innovation.
• Organize work to meet project deadlines and contribute to multidisciplinary team efforts.