Postdoctoral Research Associate

Department

This is an opportunity to join a large, dynamic research group developing genetic methods for the control of pest insects, especially mosquitoes. 

The specific project, funded by the Wellcome Trust, aims to develop ‘refractory insects’ - mosquitoes that are less able to transmit specific pathogens, in this case alphaviruses such as chikungunya virus. We are exploring several potential approaches, here primarily focusing on expression - in transgenic mosquitoes - of “dominant negative” variants of virus proteins to interfere with virus replication (see https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2303080120; for a different approach see also https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.02.06.527261). 

This is part of a large, collaborative project; co-investigators are Christine Reitmayer (Keele University); Andres Merits (University of Tartu, Estonia) and Jamal I-Ching Sam (University of Malaya, Malaysia).

Role

The post-holder will join a larger team developing virus-refractory Aedes aegypti through various molecular mechanisms (see and https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.02.06.527261 and https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2303080120 for other examples). While being involved in all aspects of the project, a key aspect of the role relates to the analysis of vector-virus interactions, specifically the alterations (if any) in vector competence of our various transgenic mosquitoes, so virus-vector-transgene interactions. This is an applied project aiming to develop field-usable methods and potentially strains for reducing transmission of such viruses, however this beyond-state-of-the-art development also generates considerable new fundamental knowledge and insights.

Funding is available immediately, nominal start date for this position is October 2026 but negotiable.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

The post-holder will have a PhD in a relevant biological science, or equivalent. They will have experience of working with pathogenic viruses at BSL2 or higher, enthusiasm for, and experience of, working with insects, ideally including development and analysis of transgenic insects, evidence of careful and reliable working and ability to work effectively in a team. The post-holder will report to the refractory insect leader and through them to the lab head, Prof Luke Alphey.

We are also advertising two other roles in the department they are Postdoctoral Research Associates (15166) and Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Grade 7) or PDRA (Grade 6) at University of York.

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Prof Luke Alphey on luke.alphey@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

As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview. Read more about the University of York’s commitments under the Disability Confident scheme.

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