Research Associate- Microbiology

2 weeks ago

Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom Newcastle University Full time

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our research team. 

You will support our team in using systems microbiology approaches to dissect Gram-negative envelope biology. 

Much of the ecological success of bacteria can be attributed to their robust, protective envelope. The cell envelope is a complex structure, featuring a mesh-like peptidoglycan (PG) layer that provides mechanical protection to the cell. In Gram-negative bacteria, this PG mesh lays between two lipid bilayers, named the inner and the outer membrane. During growth and cell division, the envelope layers are enlarged by the combined actions of different protein machineries. Importantly, the co-ordination of this synthesis is vitally critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the envelope. Disturbed envelope biogenesis, thus, often leads to cell death, making it an excellent antibiotic target. The asymmetric nature of the OM lipid bilayer in Gram-negative bacteria provides a permeability barrier to both hydrophobic and large hydrophilic antimicrobials. This impermeability, in combination with efflux pumps, makes these organisms notoriously difficult to treat with antibiotics. Despite the critical importance of the Gram-negative cell envelope for developing effective antimicrobial therapies, genome-wide tools to dissect envelope biogenesis are still underdeveloped. 

This post is offered on a fixed term basis until 28.02.2026.

For informal enquiries contact Manuel Banzhaf,

Find out more about the Faculty of Medical Sciences here:

Find out more about our Research Institutes here: 

Please note that if you are successful to this role, you will require medical clearance before you can commence in the role.

As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of . These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.

Key Accountabilities

Although working under the general guidance of an academic or Principal Investigator, you 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

The Person 

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Ability to work well as part of a team and rapidly acquire new skills Detailed subject knowledge in microbiology 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  Ability to optimize and troubleshoot new techniques Extensive experience of recombinant DNA manipulation, including molecular cloning and genome editing Deep understanding and experience studying DNA-binding proteins using in vitro techniques, such as DNase I foot printing, in vitro transcription and gel shift experiments Extensive experience of genome-wide techniques for mapping DNA-protein interactions Previous experience of recombinant and native protein purification techniques, including FPLC Experience working with category 2 pathogens Extensive experience using the S&P BM6 pinning robot

Desirable

Some experience and understanding of using chemical genomics techniques Some experience of using animal models to study bacterial pathogens  Ability to assist and help coordinate less experienced lab members, and past responsibility for undertaking managing, and reviewing risk assessments 

Attributes and Behaviour

Candidates should be highly motivated and actively pursue a career in academic science or R&D You should display analytical thinking and problem-solving skills towards molecular stopgaps and develop solutions towards assays Have a collaborative mindset, both within the immediate laboratory and larger studies with other research groups Be able to adapt, identifying gaps within the field and ability to take initiative towards independent research questions

Desirable

Efficient with time management across multiple projects and be independent in directing research direction You will take an active role in the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate students, leading research projects in line with university courses  Show a clear passion for research, displaying a passion for field and look to access further funding opportunities through grant applications 

Qualifications

A PhD in natural science discipline 

Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.

We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.

At Newcastle University we hold a silver award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality. We also hold a Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC. We are a employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme.

In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe. 

Requisition ID: 27024


We ensure there's something for everyone and these benefits include: a cycle-to-work schemeshopping discountscompetitive pension schemehealth and wellbeing initiativesactivities and eventsgenerous leavediscounted travelChristmas shutdown

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