Post-Doctoral Research Assistant

We are recruiting for an exceptional individual to join us as a postdoctoral researcher in the Coulthurst lab, Division of Molecular Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, to study the role and molecular basis of inter- bacterial interactions mediated by the Type VI secretion system.

The successful candidate will join us to work on an exciting project utilising a range of molecular, cellular and ‘omics approaches to study the nature, roles and mechanism of deployment of anti-bacterial effector proteins delivered by the bacterial Type VI secretion system. The Type VI secretion system is an important and widespread determinant of competitive inter-microbial interactions in diverse polymicrobial communities, including those relevant to health and disease.

This project is funded by the Wellcome Trust and the successful candidate will join a large and vibrant team of researchers with diverse interests and experience. They will have opportunities to interact with a range of expert collaborators, to learn and utilise a variety of state-of-the-art techniques, to lead their own part of the overall project, and to mentor other researchers.

Your priorities will include:

• Performing high quality and rigorous experimental work and data analysis, using a range of molecular, cellular and biochemical approaches in the lab combined with appropriate bioinformatics and quantitative approaches when analysing data.
• Presenting research findings to specialist and non-specialist audiences, including oral presentations at scientific meetings and the preparation of manuscripts for publication.
• Participating in fruitful relationships with other lab members and external collaborators to generate new data and approaches.
• Mentoring and training more junior researchers and students.
• Assisting in the smooth day-to-day running of the lab and care of its resources.

Who we’re looking for:

• An experienced molecular bacteriologist with a demonstrated interest in bacterial protein secretion systems, anti-bacterial toxins and bacterial regulatory systems.
• Have previously studied and have up-to-date knowledge of the bacterial Type VI secretion system.
• Holding, or be about to receive, a PhD in molecular microbiology or related discipline.
• A track record of publication in international peer-reviewed journals, including at least one as a first author.
• Able to demonstrate a high degree of motivation and a track record of leading research and mentoring others, commensurate with career stage.
• Experienced in handling and genetic manipulation of several Gram-negative bacterial species, including opportunistic pathogens at CL2.
• Expertise in a range of molecular biology techniques and experience in analysing bacterial gene expression and regulation.
• Experience in biochemical approaches including protein purification and proteomics and basic skills in microscopy.
• The ability to solve problems and work independently.
• A friendly and considerate individual who will work well with everyone in our diverse research team and with external collaborators.

The diversity of our staff and students helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for undergraduate, postgraduate and distance learning. Family friendly policies, staff networks for BME, Disabled and LGBT staff, membership of Athena SWAN, the ECU Race Equality Charter and Stonewall as well a full range of disability services, create an enjoyable and inclusive place to work.

For further information about this position please contact Sarah Coulthurst by email to s.j.coulthurst@dundee.ac.uk.

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