Research Fellow, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences

Job description

The School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences (MDBS) at Queen’s University Belfast, is currently seeking to appoint an exceptional candidate to the post of Research Fellow.

The successful candidate will provide genomics support for the QUB SARS-CoV-2 sequencing team, which was created to deliver large-scale and rapid whole-genome virus sequencing as part of the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium, and now supports the local NHS. The University, with Dr David Simpson from the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine as PI, is working closely with a team in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust led by Dr Derek Fairley (Regional Virus Laboratory).

The primary role will be to prepare libraries from amplified SARS-CoV-2 genomes for next generation sequencing. This will involve working closely with the Genomics CTU who will provide access to the required technology platforms including an Echo liquid handler and Illumina, Oxford nanopore and PacBio sequencers.

The successful applicant will be responsible for sample handling and day-to-day planning and prioritisation to facilitate processing of samples according to varying demand and deadlines. In addition to gaining experience with cutting-edge molecular genetic techniques there will be the opportunity for innovation and development of more effective protocols. You will also be involved in handling of the sequence data and bioinformatic analysis of the ever-growing number of virus sequences locally and nationally.

This post is available on a fixed term contract for 12 months.

The successful candidate must have, and your application should clearly demonstrate you have:

• Have or about to obtain a PhD in a subject involving molecular biology
• 3 years relevant work experience to include basic molecular biology techniques such as nucleic acid extraction, RT-PCR, and DNA sequencing. Some experience with bioinformatics.

*Please note the above are not an exhaustive list.* For further information about the role including the essential and desirable criteria click on the 'Candidate Information' link below.

We offer an excellent employment package that includes:

• Great terms & conditions
• Pension schemes
• Family-friendly initiatives
• Career development opportunities
• Support for health & mental wellbeing
• Generous holiday entitlement of 8 weeks a year (made up of 23 days annual leave, 10 closure days and 9 bank holidays)

This post is available for 12 months. Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.

Queen’s University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We have created an inclusive culture by establishing staff networks such as iRise  (Race) and PRISM  (LGBTQ+) which help us progress equality.

We also subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI in addition to Athena Swan. For further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please visit: www.qub.ac.uk/diversity ; www.qub.ac.uk/qgi  and www.qub.ac.uk/sites/StaffGateway/StaffNetworks/ .

Candidate Information
Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr Timofey Skvortsov at [email protected]
About the School
Attractive reward package
Further information for international applicants