Post Doctoral Research Associate - INTENRAL ONLY - Strand, London, WC2R 2LSTHIS VACANCY IS OPEN TO INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLYAbout UsThe Department of Infectious Diseases is a constituent department of the School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences with KCL’s Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine. It comprises a vibrant scientific and clinical community of multidisciplinary research groups engaged in basic and translational investigations of the biology, immunopathogenesis, vaccinology and clinical management of human microbial pathogens. Current areas of research include the biology and immunology of HIV/AIDS, SARS CoV-2 and influenza viruses as well as host interactions, immune evasion and antimicrobial resistance of enteric and respiratory bacterial pathogens. The department also studies basic and translational immunology and inflammation science. In addition, we have key interactions with infection-specialised clinical colleagues at Guys and St Thomas’ and King’s College Hospital Trusts. The Swanson lab studies how viruses manipulate cellular RNA metabolism and RNA binding proteins to complete their replication cycle and how antiviral RNA binding proteins inhibit viruses. We are also characterising how transposable elements are regulated and lead to inflammatory responses.About the roleWe are seeking a talented and committed postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) to join the Swanson lab. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, performing, analysing and presenting experimental work to understand how RNA modifications regulate viral replication. RNA modifications regulate many steps of gene expression. The most common RNA modification in mRNA, m6A, is found in both viral and cellular transcripts. However, it remains unclear whether m6A regulates viral replication by altering viral gene expression, viral RNA sensing or cellular gene expression. It is also not clear which cellular proteins read the relevant m6A modifications in the context of viral infection and whether their deposition is controlled. In addition, there are several other RNA modifications, including m1A and pseudouridine, that may also regulate viral replication or sensing by antiviral proteins. The PRDA will characterise how RNA modifications affect multiple viruses including influenza A virus. This is a full time (35 hours per week) post, and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 7th December 2025.