Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed Term) (MED reference: MED264025

Unlock Your Research Potential in Fungal Pathogen Adaptation

This exciting opportunity offers a chance to contribute to cutting-edge research in fungal biology, focusing on the fascinating world of Candida albicans, a significant opportunistic pathogen. If you are a driven and innovative researcher eager to make a tangible impact, this role presents a compelling next step in your scientific career.

The Opportunity:

• Pioneering Research: You will be instrumental in a multi-national Wellcome Trust award, collaborating with leading academic and medical institutions in the UK and South Africa. The core focus is understanding adaptation mechanisms in fungal pathogens, a critical area for human health.
• Investigating Mating and Gene Flow: Dive deep into the intricate processes of mating and gene flow within Candida albicans. This research will employ a sophisticated blend of classical, genomic, molecular, and bioinformatic techniques to unravel the complexities of inter-clade mating, potential post-mating barriers, and the impact of gene flow on temperature adaptation.
• Independent and Collaborative Environment: This role provides a unique balance, encouraging you to undertake independent research while also fostering strong teamwork. You'll have the autonomy to explore new avenues, develop innovative methodologies, and significantly contribute to published scientific outcomes.
• Creative Freedom: Beyond the defined project aims, you are encouraged to exercise initiative and creativity. Identify emerging research areas, refine and develop research methods, and expand your own research portfolio.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Advanced Skill Development: This position is an excellent platform to hone and expand a comprehensive skill set. You will gain invaluable experience in advanced molecular biology, genomics, and bioinformatics, all applied to a highly relevant biological system.
• International Collaboration: Working within a multi-national award provides unparalleled exposure to global research networks and diverse scientific perspectives, enriching your professional experience and expanding your network.
• Impactful Research: Contributing to the understanding of fungal pathogen adaptation has direct implications for improving human health and developing new therapeutic strategies. This role offers the satisfaction of conducting research with significant real-world relevance.
• Academic Advancement: The expectation of independent research and contributing to published outcomes is ideal for those aspiring to further their academic careers, potentially leading to postdoctoral positions or future faculty roles.
• Supportive and Inclusive Environment: The School of Life Sciences’ Athena Swan Gold Award underscores a deep commitment to equality and inclusion, ensuring a supportive and nurturing environment for all researchers.

What We're Looking For:

Candidates should possess a PhD (or be nearing completion) in a relevant field such as Microbiology or Evolutionary Genetics, with a strong preference for experience in Fungal Biology. Essential skills include proficiency in microbial laboratory practices, hands-on experience with microbial culture, and a solid understanding of molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA extraction, electrophoresis, PCR, transformation). You should also possess strong genomic and statistical analysis skills. While experience with microbes is mandatory, prior work with yeast, and particularly Candida species, would be highly advantageous.

This full-time, fixed-term role offers an immediate start and runs until October 31, 2028. If you are ready to take on a challenging and rewarding research role, we encourage you to apply.