Research Associate in Molecular Virology

Location: South Kensington Campus

About the role:

The Burgess Lab is seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Research Associate in Molecular Virology to join our newly established team at Imperial College London. Our lab investigates the molecular mechanisms of RNA regulation during viral infection, with a particular focus on Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a widespread herpesvirus with significant clinical impact.

We previously discovered that HCMV requires the host complex CCR4-NOT to effectively replicate, though its own RNAs appear resistant to CCR4-NOT's activity (PMID: 37846490) representing a novel viral strategy to subvert cellular gene expression pathways and a virus vulnerability. This MRC-funded position offers an exciting opportunity to decipher the molecular mechanism of this critical virus:host interaction using cutting-edge RNA analysis techniques.

What you would be doing:

You will lead a multifaceted project combining advanced transcriptomic approaches and protein–protein interaction studies to dissect the role of the CCR4-NOT complex during both lytic and latent phases of HCMV infection.

Your work will include mRNA decay and translation analyses to determine how poly(A) tail length and CCR4-NOT activity shape gene expression during infection. You will receive training in RNA ‘omics techniques through our collaboration with Dr. Ben Towler’s group at the University of Sussex, equipping you with cutting-edge skills in transcriptome profiling. You will lead investigations into how infection alters the activity of CCR4-NOT through association with host and viral proteins and work with our collaborator Matthew Reeves (UCL) to investigate the importance of CCR4-NOT and poly(A)-tail regulation to HCMV latency.

By integrating these complementary approaches, your research will define the molecular function of CCR4-NOT in HCMV infection, transforming our understanding of this key virus:host interaction and its potential importance to other infections.

What we are looking for:

• Highly skilled researcher with a PhD and strong background in molecular virology and/or virus:host interactions. Researchers with a background in RNA biology and a keen interest in virology/host-pathogen interactions will also be considered.
• Practical experience in a broad range of techniques such as cell culture, molecular cloning, viral replication assays, gene silencing and protein:protein interaction analyses.
• Experience and/or a strong interest in learning RNA and/or protein ‘omics analysis.
• Able to independently design and execute experiments, interpret data and identify follow-up strategies.
• Proactive, detail-oriented scientist with a collaborative mindset and open approach to problem solving.
• Proven track record of scientific achievement, including scientific publication and/or presentations at conferences.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and join a young team that values open discussion, collaboration, inclusion, scientific integrity and fun.
• Access to cutting-edge facilities, including Nanopore sequencing, high-content imaging platforms, advanced proteomics platforms and flow cytometry (FACS) systems.
• Active career mentorship and access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers
• Opportunities to attend national and international conferences to showcase your work and enhance your academic network.

Further Information

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

This is a full time fixed-term position for 3 years, based at the South Kensington Campus with a start date of 01 October 2025.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact:

Hannah Burgess h.burgess1@imperial.ac.uk

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