Post Doctoral Research Associate

Vacancy terms: Full-time and fixed-term until 31 March 2028

Hours per week: 37.5

About the role

We are excited to welcome a curious, dedicated, and collaborative Post Doctoral Research Associate to join a dynamic, UKRI-MRC funded project exploring how the respiratory microbiome influences the behaviour of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) during pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) infection. This interdisciplinary project, led by Dr Leah Cuthbertson in close partnership with Dr Pranab Haldar and Professor Galina Mukamolova at the University of Leicester, provides an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to our understanding of tuberculosis and help shape future therapeutic strategies.

Mtb is a remarkably resilient pathogen capable of adopting different physiological states, including a subset known as “Differentially Culturable Mtb” (DCMtb), which have been found in both macrophages and clinical TB samples. This project will explore how the respiratory microbiome influences DCMtb formation and persistence in PTB patients.

We are looking for a research-focused individual who enjoys working in a supportive team environment and is eager to take the lead in characterising Mtb populations from patient samples. The successful candidate will play a central role in microbiological data generation and analysis, while working closely with a Clinical Research Associate and the broader team. You’ll be encouraged to contribute to publications, share insights, and bring new ideas to the table as we collaboratively drive this important work forward.

About you

Applicants should hold a PhD in Biochemistry or Microbiology, or be nearing completion of their doctoral studies with thesis submission expected by 1 October 2025. You should demonstrate a strong track record of research, including leading authorship of high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals and the development of novel analytical methods.

Experience working with Mycobacterium tuberculosis or other Class 3 pathogens is essential, particularly in conducting infection studies using cell lines or clinical samples and in drafting specialised standard operating procedures. Additionally, candidates should possess expertise in host-pathogen interactions, supported by relevant experimental approaches, models, and analytical techniques.

For more information, please see the Job Summary Form.

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Dr Leah Cuthbertson at lfc11@leicester.ac.uk

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

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