Assistant Research Fellow - Microbiology and Immunology

Assistant Research Fellow - Microbiology and Immunology-2401109

 

DEPARTMENT OF MICROBIOLOGY AND IMMUNOLOGY
TE TARI MOROMOITI ME TE ĀRAI MATE

Who we are/Ko wai mātou

Microbiology, immunology, and virology are dynamic fields of research that play a crucial role in understanding life processes. The University of Otago stands out in these disciplines, being a leader in innovative and internationally acclaimed research.

The Phi laboratory is renowned for its cutting-edge research in bacteriophage biology and its practical applications. This internationally recognised team offers a supportive and stimulating environment, comprised of many experienced scientists who are dedicated to advancing this exciting area of study.

The role/Te mahi

This Assistant Research Fellow position is based in the Phage-Host Interactions (Phi) Laboratory, led by Professor Peter Fineran. In this role, you will be part of a collaborative, multi-centre, interdisciplinary research programme funded by the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), examining "Adaptable Phage Solutions: An Aotearoa-NZ Platform for Precision Biocontrol for Primary Industries."

Primary industries face numerous pathogens, with a dwindling supply of sustainable solutions for protecting food production. As the assistant research fellow, you will work as part of our programme team to create safe and environmentally friendly biocontrols to combat bacterial pathogens in Aotearoa New Zealand and abroad. We are building on our expertise to generate a robust pipeline for the discovery and development of non-GM phage-based biocontrols against any bacterial pathogen. 

Our programme will exploit data-intensive analysis of phage-bacterial interactions, employ smart cocktail design and evolutionary methods to create phage biocontrols that target the appropriate pathogens and mitigate phage resistance.

Skills and experience/Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

The ideal candidate will have:
•    MSc or Bsc (Hons) in Genetics, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or similar field. 
•    Excellent microbiology skills
•    Experience working with phages preferable
•    Experience in molecular biology preferable
•    A thorough, organised, and systematic approach to laboratory practice and record keeping is essential.
•    Self-motivated.
•    Ability to work well in a team environment.
•    High ethical standards of work. 
•    Excellent organisational skills.

Further details/Pūroko

This is a full-time (1 FTE), fixed term (32 months) position available to start immediately, located in Dunedin.

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this position.

The starting salary for this position is at ARF01 level, $59,945 per annum.

Specific enquiries may be directed to Professor Peter Fineran, James Cook Research Fellow and Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand via the contact details below. 

Application/Tono

To submit your application please click the apply button. Applications quoting reference number 2401109 will close on Sunday, 21 July 2024. 

Interested candidates should provide: 
•    A short cover letter.
•    A detailed CV (highlighting publications relevant to this project). 
•    At least two academic / scientific referees.

Additional Information

Contact: Professor Peter Fineran

Position details: Job Description

Guidelines for Academic Positions: Guidelines

Further Information: Department Website

Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

Location: About Dunedin

Primary Location
 NZL-SI-Dunedin
Employment Status
 Fixed Term 
Salary Level and Range
 Assistant Research Fellow ($58,341 to $78,531)
Organisation
 Microbiology and Immunology
Job Function
 Research