Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Microbiology

Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000

Job description

We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the dynamic, productive, and interdisciplinary research group of Prof Kevin Foster, based in the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford. The overall goal of the project is to understand how bacteria compete in the mammalian gut and use this to identify communities that inhibit the growth of key bacterial pathogens. We will also study how vaccination can shape these competitions between pathogens and other gut bacteria. This project is a collaboration with the lab of Prof Emma Slack, also at the Dunn School.

The Foster and Slack labs have a strong record of helping postdoctoral researchers become PIs, with the majority going on to start their own groups.

The post-holder will be responsible for managing their own academic research and administrative activities. You will perform experimental work with anaerobic gut bacteria and bacterial pathogens of the human gut microbiome, with application of both in-vitro and in-vivo germ-free methods. In addition to research, the post holder will provide guidance to less experienced members of the research group.

The post-holder should hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD in microbiology or a related discipline. You should have extensive experience in bacterial culturing, particularly anaerobic culture, as well as mouse microbiome work. You should be highly motivated, organised, and able to work independently as well as part of a team. Experience in methods associated with the study of the mammalian gut microbiome and a proven track record of publications are essential.

This is a fixed-term appointment available for 3 years in the first instance. If you are interested in this role and have the skills and experience we are looking for, please apply online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application.

Only applications submitted online and received before midday on Tuesday 22 April 2025 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.