Research Associate in Virus Receptor Discovery for Pandemic Preparedness

Role Description

Department

The Cell Surface Signalling laboratory led by Professor Gavin Wright (www.wright-lab.org) is interested in discovering the molecular basis of cellular recognition processes in both health and disease. A major aim of the laboratory’s research is to understand how cells interact with pathogens such as viruses to inform the rational design of novel therapeutics and vaccines. Examples of our contributions include discovering vaccine targets for malaria (Crosnier et al. Nature 480 p534) and trypanosomiasis (Autheman et al. Nature 595 p96). Central to our approach is a large and unique collection of human cell surface receptor ectodomains that can be used to directly identify extracellular protein interactions (Shilts et al. Nature 608 p397). The Hull York Medical School and associated Department of Biology and York Biomedical Research Institute are recognised world leaders in pathogen research, and you will join a vibrant environment of scientific researchers who are dedicated to tackling these important problems in global health.

Role

We are looking for a postdoctoral level scientist to lead a project that will use our human receptor discovery platform to identify host receptors for up to 200 viruses listed on pandemic risk registers. In collaboration with Dr Dalan Bailey at The Pirbright Institute, the role these newly identified receptors in host recognition by viruses will be determined. This project will contribute scientific knowledge that will be crucial in preparing the response to the next pandemic. You will be responsible for leading the project to meet funder milestones, design and execution of experiments, preparing progress reports, and contributing to the local and wider scientific community through presentations and other engagement.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• A PhD a biochemistry-related subject, ideally in host-pathogen interactions.
• Experience in recombinant protein expression and purification, ideally in mammalian or insect cell lines.
• Experience in molecular biology such as PCR and cloning
• Experience in protein sequence-based data analysis and/or high throughput screening
• Experience in virus infection assays would be an advantage
• Highly organised and reliable personality

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Gavin Wright on gavin.wright@york.ac.uk 

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

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