Research Assistant in Structural Parasitology

Biosciences is one of the world’s foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Computational modelling approaches are frequently used alongside experimental research programmes and much of our research crosses traditional boundaries, including the relationship of biodiversity to the health of the planet. Activity is underpinned by high calibre science technology platforms and state of the art equipment. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the lab led by Dr. Josie Ferreira in the department of Structural and Molecular Biology. Our team studies how the Plasmodium parasite’s cytoskeleton is adapted for the multiple ecological niches it encounters during its lifecycle. This research requires a multidisciplinary approach, and will provide opportunities across structural biology, biochemistry and cell biology.

We are seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to join our team and contribute to research as well as the general running of the lab. The projects in our lab focus on studying the unique cytoskeleton of the malaria parasite. This RA role will involve a wide-range of techniques including parasite culturing and genetic manipulation, endogenous protein purification and electron microscopy. The research will be conducted in a friendly and supportive environment with access to outstanding facilities and in the heart of London.

This post is funded by the Wellcome Trust for 3 years in the first instance on UCL Grade 6B (£37,332- £39,980 per annum inclusive of London Allowance).

This post has the scope to transition towards a PhD.

If you have any queries about the role or need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please see contact details on the UCL job advert page.

The post offers an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic and committed researcher with an interest in infectious diseases and structural biology and will especially benefit someone who intends to work towards a PhD.

You must have a BSc (or equivalent) in a relevant subject area with experience of working in a research lab. You will assist the team in the development, planning, running and delivery of research and will produce independent and original contributions. You will communicate results as scientific papers and in scientific presentations at local, national, and international conferences.

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits. Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/

Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality.

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