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The Department of Tropical Disease Biology is recruiting for a Research Assistant to join the team to assist research on characterising aminoglycoside resistance in Mycobacterium abscessus and optimising novel antibiotic combinations. Reporting to Dr Daire Cantillon, this is your exciting opportunity to work on a newly awarded Directors Catalyst Fund grant!
The aim of Dr Cantillon’s project is to define aminoglycoside resistance in the emerging bacterial pathogen Mycobacterium abscessus and how they can be exploited to develop novel antibiotic regimens for increased treatment success. Aminoglycosides form the backbone of the treatment, yet M. abscessus contains uncharacterised aminoglycoside resistance mechanisms that are likely implicated in treatment failure.
Key Responsibilities are (but not limited to):
- Perform DNA extraction to a high standard as required for genome sequencing
- In vitro evolution of resistance in bacterial strains to clinically used antimicrobial drugs
- Assist in development of SOPs and risk assessments and reviewing current health and safety documents
- Prepare and maintain adequate laboratory records and analyse and manage experimental data
- Assist in the design and planning of research activities and administration of writing papers
- Ensure the laboratory is kept well stocked, clean and equipment maintained
To be successful it is essential that you demonstrate:
- BSc or equivalent in a biological science
- Experience or training in microbiology and cell culture with up-to-date knowledge of molecular biology including whole genome sequencing methodologies and understanding of genetics and infectious diseases
- Knowledge of chronic bacterial respiratory infections and antimicrobial resistance
- Experience of working in a microbiology laboratory to standard operating procedures
- Experience of DNA extractions, general molecular biology techniques including PCR and gel electrophoresis
- Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work co-operatively and productively as an integral member of a multidisciplinary team
(Please read the full Job Description & Person Specification for more details.)
Additional benefits of joining LSTM:
- 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, plus Christmas closure days
- Generous occupational pension schemes
- Government backed “cycle to work” scheme.
- Affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre
- Plus, a host of additional family friendly policies
Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Daire Cantillon on daire.cantillon@lstmed.ac.uk
Closing Date: 16 July 2023
Application Process: Due to the volume of applications, we receive, we may close our vacancies early. It is therefore advisable to apply as early as possible if you would like to be considered for a role.
Inclusion is central to our values at LSTM.
We seek to attract and recruit people who reflect the diversity across our communities, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, nationality, faith or belief, social background, age and disability. LSTM selects candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience.
We welcome conversations about flexible working; and applications from those returning to employment after a break from their careers.
About LSTM
Founded in 1898 and the oldest of its kind in the world, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in tropical diseases. Through the creation of effective links with governments, NGOs, private organisations and global institutions and by responding to the health needs of communities, LSTM aims to promote improved health, particularly for people of the less developed/resource poorest countries in the tropics and sub-tropics.
Look at some of the great work we have achieved over the past year by viewing our annual report:
LSTM Annual Report 2021-2022 | LSTM (lstmed.ac.uk)
LSTM actively promotes Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding Policies
