Research Associate in Viral Protein - Membrane Interactions

Work Hours: 35.0 Hours per Week

Industry: Education

The role

The project is funded by a 3-year responsive mode EPSRC-SFI grant on a project titled “Understanding Molecular Interactions Initiating Adsorption of Viral Capsid Proteins on Lipid Droplets (MIrACLe)”, led by Professor Wuge Briscoe (University of Bristol), with partners at University of Manchester (Professor Jian Lu) and University of Galway (Dr David Cheung), as well as collaborators at EU and UK Central facilities (ESRF, Diamond, and ISIS). The project will aim to probe molecular interactions underpinning the initial step in dengue viral replication, bringing to bear quantitative experimental and computational methods in biophysics, soft matter, and colloid science to directly access molecular structures and interactions at complex bio-interfaces. The PDRA in Bristol (funded till 30 June 2028) will focus on direct measurements using the surface force apparatus (SFA), complemented by X-ray and neutron scattering, to study the molecular mechanisms underpinning adsorption of the dengue viral capsid protein on the lipid droplet membrane.

For the Bristol PDRA, it is essential for the candidate to have prior experience for performing measurements using surface force apparatus (SFA), designing and undertaking X-ray and neutron scattering experiments, and performing related data analyses. 

What will you be doing? (key elements and duties the post-holder will carry out):

• Perform advanced literature search and design experimental programme
• Undertake original research
• Communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically
• Collaborate with academic colleagues on areas of shared research interest
• Attend and contribute to relevant meetings and conferences
• Analyse and interpret research data and draw conclusions on the outcomes
• Write up research work for publication
• Translate knowledge of advances in the subject area into research activity
• Supervise research students and assist in the development of student research skills
• Manage risks in the work environment and their potential impact on their own work and that of others

You should apply if

• You are passionate about applying advanced physicochemical methods to solving biophysical problems.
• You have advanced professional knowledge of colloids and interface science.
• You have experience of the surface force apparatus (SFA) – its operation, maintenance, and repair.
• You have experience of designing, planning, leading, and performing X-ray and neutron scattering experiments at EU and UK facilities.
• You can work independently and collaboratively.

Additional information

Contract type: Open ended with fixed funding until 30/06/2028

Work pattern: Full time/35 hours per week

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 04/08/2025

For informal queries, please contact Professor Wuge H. Briscoe; wuge.briscoe@bristol.ac.uk

Our strategy and mission

We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.

The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution. 

Advert information