Research Technician

Job description

About the role

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated research technician passionate about bacterial infection biology or host-pathogen interactions to join our dynamic and growing research group. You will have the opportunity to expand your research portfolio by supporting cutting-edge research that combines microbiology, in vitro infection models, and in vivo experimental models to contribute to an advanced understanding of bacterial pathogenesis. You will be part of an exciting multidisciplinary team studying host-pathogen interactions at the protein, cell, and host levels.

You will be based in the group of Dr Alex McCarthy in the Department of Infectious Diseases at Imperial College London, primarily at the South Kensington campus, with work at other campuses as required.

You will support research that addresses questions on how specific host-pathogen interactions influence immune responses and bacterial pathogenesis. Your primary responsibilities will involve microbiological assays, culture of cells and in vivo models of bacterial infection, including performing procedures such as dosing, sample collection and sample processing. You will also be expected to perform routine work in the laboratory to help support its overall structure and research. You will have clear and timely communication with the researchers within the group and with others in the Department. You will attend and actively contribute to relevant workshops, lab meetings, research seminars and conferences in Imperial and the wider community. You may supervise undergraduate students.

What you would be doing

This role has three key components:

Supporting in vivo animal experiments: This role involves the care and experimental use of laboratory animals, with a strong emphasis on animal welfare. Experience with experimental in vivo models, and a commitment to ethical animal research practices, is beneficial.

Facilitating laboratory-based studies: This will involve investigating the role of host-pathogen interactions on immune responses and bacterial infection, using microbiological culture and in vitro stimulation of immune cells. You will also be expected to perform routine work in the laboratory to help support its overall structure and research.

Coordinating the running of the research group: This will involve assisting with general laboratory management, including ordering and maintaining stocks of reagents and consumables, ensuring equipment maintenance and calibration, and contributing to the smooth running of the research environment.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with research interests in bacterial infection biology. Applicants must demonstrate as part of their application, how they meet the essential criteria required of the post.

You will:

• be a highly motivated candidate with research interests in bacterial infection biology.
• hold a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Microbiology, Immunology, Infection Biology or Life Sciences (Essential).

• hold a Master's degree in bacterial infection biology or host-pathogen interactions, or a closely related area (Desirable).
• have previous experience of working in a microbiology research laboratory, and handling and performing research with human bacterial pathogens classified as ACDP2.
• have knowledge of in vivo models in microbiology and immunology, including the principles of in vivo experimentation and animal welfare.
• have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• enjoy working collaboratively.
• form positive relationships with the research group and wider community.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to contribute to innovation in bacterial infection biology.
• Training in complementary aspects of bacterial infection biology in the Centre for Bacterial Resistance Biology .
• The opportunity to collaborate with other researchers in the Group of Dr Alex McCarthy .
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: Gain access to Imperial's sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).

Further information

The post is full time and fixed-term contract for 2 years with potential for renewal, based at the South Kensington campus. You will be expected to work 100% of your time on-site.

Interested applicants who want to discuss the role are encouraged to contact Alex McCarthy ( [email protected] ). Please note that this email address is for enquiries only and you should not send your application to this email. CV and covering letter should be submitted via the online application as detailed below.

More information on

• research in the McCarthy laboratory here .
• on the Centre for Bacterial Resistance Biology is here .
• on the Department of Infectious Diseases is here .

A postdoctoral research associate has been recruited for this project.