Research Associate in Molecular Parasitology and Malaria Transmission Biology

Location: South Kensington Campus

Job Summary

We are seeking a driven and talented researcher, eager to make a difference in global health, to join the Vector Immunogenomics and Infection Laboratory as Research Associate.

The role is part of Transmission Zero, a pioneering global research initiative dedicated to developing innovative genetic vector control methods to combat malaria transmission in sub-Saharan Africa. At the forefront of our efforts is the identification of novel strategies to impede malaria transmission by targeting malaria parasites within the mosquito vector, with a particular focus on gene drive technology for mosquito population replacement. This project aligns with international efforts toward malaria eradication and sits at the intersection of molecular parasitology and malaria transmission biology.

As a Research Associate, you will play a crucial role in investigating mosquito-parasite interactions and characterizing novel effector molecules targeting the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Collaboration and interdisciplinary research are key aspects of this role, given our affiliation with the broader Transmission Zero program. In addition to our partners within Imperial College, we collaborate with esteemed international institutions in Africa Europe and United States.

Specifically, you will focus on developing malaria transmission-blocking effectors, emphasizing nanobodies and antimicrobial peptides. This involves identifying, developing, and optimizing nanobodies and peptides that bind crucial malaria parasite molecules or target the Plasmodium parasite within the mosquito vector, respectively. These prioritized molecules will be equipped with gene drive properties and engineered into the mosquito genome, enabling the examination and characterization of transgenic mosquitoes' capacity to block malaria transmission. Desired expertise includes molecular and cell biology, molecular parasitology, parasite genetic engineering, synthetic biology, genetics, and immunology.

We welcome applications from ambitious, self-driven individuals passionate about cutting-edge scientific research. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to ground-breaking research with the potential to revolutionize malaria control strategies and enhance the health outcomes of communities in sub-Saharan Africa.

Duties and responsibilities

As a vital member of the team, your key research duties will include designing and executing experiments to generate high-quality, publication-worthy data pertinent to your specific research focus. Your innovative mindset will be pivotal in developing techniques, models, and methodologies for data collection and analysis, ensuring the precision and reliability of research outcomes.

Demonstrating proactive leadership, you will plan research experiments and projects, taking initiative to achieve project objectives while prioritizing tasks within agreed work schedules to optimize efficiency and productivity. Additionally, you will actively participate in coordinating various research support activities, maintaining thorough and accurate records of all experiments and research findings to ensure data integrity and traceability.

In addition to your research duties, you will engage in administrative tasks vital to the smooth operation of the research project, including project documentation, regulatory compliance, procurement of research materials, and managing research-related paperwork and records. Collaboration with colleagues within the research team is essential, as you provide support in executing experiments and data analysis when needed, while also undertaking responsibilities related to teaching and practical instruction, contributing to the institution's educational mission.

Participation in relevant meetings and adherence to College policies and regulations, including those related to confidentiality, data protection, and health and safety, are integral parts of your role. You will also undertake specific safety responsibilities relevant to individual roles, ensuring compliance with Imperial’s Health and Safety policies and undertaking Business Continuity responsibilities as required.

Essential requirements 

• You should hold, or be near completion of, a PhD (or equivalent) in Biological Sciences or a related scientific discipline and have a successful track record of academic publications commensurate with experience.
• You should also possess demonstrable experience in molecular parasitology and infection research, along with a proven track record of academic publications and practical experience in a competitive research environment. Advanced proficiency in molecular, synthetic, and cell biology, as well as genetics, is essential. Knowledge of parasitic diseases, particularly malaria, and relevant molecular and cell biology techniques is crucial, along with familiarity with scientific writing and communication of complex scientific concepts. You should have an understanding of academic publishing and the grant application processes.
• You should be able to work efficiently under pressure. Key skills you should have include the ability to develop and apply new concepts, teamwork and cooperation, organizational skills, and creative problem-solving abilities. Additionally, you should exhibit a collaborative mindset, adaptability, commitment to maintaining standards, willingness to undergo training, and enthusiasm for domestic and international travel for research and conference participation.

Further Information

The post is available full-time, fixed term until 31 December 2026. You will be based at South Kensington Campus.

Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant.

Should you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr Dina Vlachou, d.vlachou@imperial.ac.uk or Professor George K. Christophides g.christophides@imperial.ac.uk.