Research Associate [Temporary Cover]
University of Cambridge
Cambridge, United Kingdom
General Description – include all relevant details from the source
The University of Cambridge invites applications for the position of Research Associate (Temporary Cover). This postdoctoral position is funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and is offered on a fixed-term basis for one year or until the return of the current post holder, whichever occurs earlier.
The research project aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying the survival of Campylobacter jejuni in the food chain and to explore potential interventions that can limit its persistence. The work forms part of a wider research effort supporting the Institutional Strategic Programme for the Quadram Institute Bioscience in Norwich.
The successful candidate will join a research programme led by Dr Andrew Grant at the University of Cambridge. The project focuses on detailed genomic and functional genomic investigations to identify the mechanisms required for C. jejuni to survive and grow across diverse environments within the food chain.
The research will involve the use of comprehensive transposon mutant libraries across different C. jejuni strains. Techniques such as TraDIS (Transposon Directed Insertion Site Sequencing) combined with RNA sequencing (RNAseq) will be employed to identify genes required for survival under various environmental stresses and combinations of stresses, including survival within mixed-species biofilms exposed to food-chain-related stress conditions.
The work will also involve investigating specific genes through the generation of defined deletion mutants and complemented mutants. Additional studies will utilize TraDIS and imaging techniques to examine survival patterns and morphological changes of Campylobacter when exposed to different biocides and antibacterial agents.
The role includes contributing to experimental design, laboratory-based research, genomic and bioinformatic analyses, and collaboration with interdisciplinary partners. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to research outputs and support the broader scientific goals of the project and institution. The University of Cambridge promotes an inclusive research culture and is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must hold a PhD in Bacteriology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related discipline. Candidates should have demonstrated practical laboratory experience in bacterial infectious disease research. Experience working with Campylobacter species is desirable but not mandatory. Applicants must be able to work effectively within a collaborative research environment and demonstrate strong interpersonal and administrative capabilities.
Required expertise/skills
Extensive laboratory experience in bacterial infectious disease research.
Strong expertise in molecular biology techniques.
Experience or familiarity with transposon mutagenesis screening methods such as TraDIS or TnSeq.
Knowledge and experience in next-generation sequencing methodologies.
High level of computer literacy, particularly in DNA sequence analysis and bioinformatics software.
Strong analytical, organisational, and teamwork skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary research teams.
Salary details
Salary details were not specified in the source listing.
Application Deadline
31 January 2026. Interviews are scheduled to take place on 4 March 2026.