Research Associate - Genetic and Functional Analysis of Gram Positive Secretion Systems and Substrates

Research Associate - Genetic and Functional Analysis of Gram Positive Secretion Systems and Substrates

Newcastle University

Newcastle, United Kingdom

The role

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher who has expertise in the genetic manipulation of Gram-positive bacteria.

The project involves construction and characterisation of mutant strains of a range of Gram-positive bacteria and secretome analysis to identify substrate proteins. You will work as part of a large collaborative team (CombaT7) with three laboratories in Europe, with whom you will meet regularly.

Key Accountabilities

• Although working under the general guidance of an academic or Principal Investigator, the postholder will contribute ideas, including enhancements to the technical or methodological aspects of their studies, thus providing substantial 'added value'
• Develop and carry out the specified project using appropriate techniques and equipment as outlined in the personal requirements
• Determine appropriate methodologies for research, with advice and support where required
• Contribute to grant applications submitted by others and in time develop own research objectives and proposals for funding
• Begin to write, with appropriate support, proposals for individual research funding or, where funders do not permit this, contribute to the writing of collective bids
• Assess research findings for the need/scope for further investigations
• Contribute to the writing up of their research for publication and dissemination, either through seminar and conference presentations or through publications
• Present research findings, either at conferences or through publications in reputable outlets appropriate to the discipline
• May be involved in the supervision, with guidance, of final year undergraduate research projects and in providing support to postgraduate research students or Research Assistants
• Will need to work with the support staff and, on occasions, with undergraduate and postgraduate students, and interact intellectually with other academic members of the Institute
• May contribute to events celebrating the public engagement of science/social sciences/humanities
• Develop an awareness of University structures, policies and procedures and relevant issues in the higher education, research, social and political environment
• Work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team across multiple locations

The Person (Essential)

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Essential

• Ability to work well as part of a team and rapidly acquire new skills
• Detailed subject knowledge in bacterial protein secretion and/or interbacterial antagonism
• Likelihood of advanced skills directly related to the research projects
• High level of analytical and problem-solving capability
• Ability to communicate complex information with clarity and to encourage the commitment of others
• Experience of research with clear transferable skills and some experience or awareness of the research environment
• Presentations at conferences and/or high-quality publications
• Experience of genetic manipulation of Gram-positive bacteria
• Experience of phenotypic analysis of Gram-positive bacteria
• Experience of molecular biology techniques including cloning and site-directed mutagenesis
• Data management skills for information sharing between team members over multiple sites

Desirable

• Experience of making chromosomal mutations in Listeria
• Experience of handling anaerobic Gram-positive bacteria

Attributes and Behaviour

• Advanced skills directly related to the research project
• High level of analytical and problem-solving capability
• Ability to communicate complex information with clarity
• Good time management and ability to prioritise to meet deadlines

Qualifications

• A PhD in the research area required

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