Postdoctoral Research Fellow

This new full time post is available from 01/03/2026 - 29/02/2028 on a fixed term basis. The position may be extended, but this will be depending on funding and further approvals.

The post

The Living Systems Institute wishes to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to work in the group of Dr. Bertram Daum. This BBSRC-funded two-year post is available from 1st March 2026. The successful applicant will investigate ribosome hibernation in microsporidia using a combination of fluorescence microscopy, omics, focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy and cryo-electron tomography. 

The post will include:

• Culturing microsporidia in mammalian cells
• Applying O-propargyl-puromycin labelling and fluorescence microscopy to quantify protein translation in dormant spores vs. actively metabolising cell-borne microsporidian states
• RNA-sequencing and ribosome profiling analysis
• Sample preparation for focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy
• High-resolution data collection and analysis

About you

The successful applicant will be able to develop research objectives, projects and proposals; identify sources of research funding and contribute to the process of securing funds and make presentations at conferences and other events.

Applicants will possess a relevant PhD in Biochemistry/Biological Sciences or equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study. The successful applicant will be a nationally recognised authority in subject area and possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to develop research programmes and methodologies. The successful applicant will also be able to work collaboratively, supervise the work of others and act as team leader as required.

Candidates will be expected to be motivated and demonstrate good knowledge of the topic, possess excellent problem solving, interpersonal and communication skills and a collaborative spirit, combined with an ability to think carefully about their research. The successful applicant will also be able to supervise the work of others as required. Experience of electron-cryo microscopy and image processing would be a strong advantage.

In addition, the candidate will:

Essential:

• possess a keen interest and desire to learn/advance skills in fluorescence microscopy, omics, FIB-SEM and cryoET
• be familiar with standard microbiology, molecular biology, biochemical techniques, fluorescence microscopy and cryoEM
• have a publication record commensurate with experience
• possess good time management skills and the ability to prioritise and work independently

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.

What we can offer you

• Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines to produce internationally exciting research;
• Support teams that understand the University wide research and teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly
• An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics providing specialist support for external engagement and development
• Our Exeter Academic initiative supporting high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career
• A multitude of staff benefits including sector leading benefits around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), Paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay), and a Fertility Treatment Policy
• A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon

Further information

For further information please contact Dr. Bertram Daum, e-mail b.daum2@exeter.ac.uk or telephone (01392) 727454.

The closing date for completed applications is 01.02.26. Interviews are expected to take place in the week of 09.02.26.

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