Research Associate in Influenza Viruses

Location: St Mary’s Campus/South Kensington Campus

Job Summary

In the Barclay lab we are interested in understanding the evolutionary dynamics and host range of influenza viruses to enhance understanding of how the influenza virus works. We have recently been awarded funding by the MRC/UKRI to set up the Flu-TrailMap-One Health consortium of virologists, cell biologists, biochemists and structural biologists from 8 different universities and institutions to work together to assess the ongoing risk to human and mammals from the panzootic strains of bird flu known as H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b.

We are now looking to appoint a Research Associate to assess which mutations in the H5 hemagglutinin protein might adapt it to use human sialic acid receptors abundant in the nose and throat and evolve for onwards transmission between people. This post will suit someone who has an interest in cutting edge research and enjoys working in a highly collaborative, dynamic environment.

Duties and responsibilities

Your duties will include

• To carry out research to identify mutations in H5 HA proteins that enable human receptor binding.
• To collaborate with other members of the Barclay group and with the Flu-TrailMap-One Health consortium members.
• To publish and present your research at project and external meetings. 

Essential requirements

We are looking for someone who meets the following criteria, if you feel that could be you then we encourage you to apply.

• PhD in Virology or related field and an interest in virus research.
• Knowledge of the scientific techniques relevant to the research.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proven skills at problem-solving and overcoming obstacles.
• Proven ability to prioritise, plan and manage a high volume of work to meet deadlines, both prescribed and self-imposed.
• Ability to use own initiative and work independently and as part of a team, as required.
• Ability and willingness to adapt to changing timetables or work patterns as dictated by changing circumstances.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining a high degree of accuracy.
• An open, flexible and positive approach to working in a constantly changing environment.

Further Information

This post will be full time and fixed term until 30^th June 2025

*Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant within the salary range £41,694 - £44,888 per annum.

Should you have any queries regarding your application please contact: Prof Wendy Barclay: w.barclay@imperial.ac.uk

You can find out more about our employee benefits, including generous annual leave entitlements and our excellent professional development opportunities, at https://www.imperial.ac.uk/jobs/benefits/.

Closing date: 22/05/2024

Apply online via the above ‘Apply’ button. 

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