We are seeking a Research Assistant on a fixed term basis to study the immunopathology of inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Inflammation is a complex process implicating the interaction of many inflammatory mediators. Broadly, these include infiltration and activation of various inflammatory immune cells as well as increase production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The access of iron availability in the gut has been also implicated in the inflammation of gastrointestinal tract as access of iron alters the gut bacterial populations, via toll like receptors expressed on immune cells, favouring more pathogenic bacteria. Pathogenic bacteria play an important role in the production of secondary bile acids in the gut which cause an increase in reactive oxygen species and subsequently the activation of the inflammatory transcription factor NF-kB. This project will therefore study these aspects and the role they play in the immunopathology of gut inflammation and inflammation related colorectal cancer. The study will also investigate the mechanisms of actions of drugs used in the treatment of gastrointestinal inflammation and will focus on the side effects of iron therapy including dysbiosis and hypophosphatemia. You will be expected to handle human samples and conduct a variety of techniques including immunoassays, RT-PCR and microbiome analysis using probes and NGS. You are also expected to supervise PhD students and participate in national and international scientific and clinical conferences. Please refer to the attached job description and person specification for further details about the role. The post will be based at the Main Campus, University of Wolverhampton. For informal inquiries regarding the role, contact Dr Hafid Omar, h.omar6wlv.ac.uk. The University of Opportunity for Students and Staff As part of our commitment to ensure the diversity of our staff body reflects those of the student and local communities we serve, we particularly welcome applications from candidates of Black, Asian, or Ethnic Minority heritage, and candidates who are Disabled (including people who may not define themselves as disabled, but nevertheless encounter challenges) PLEASE NOTE: Applications are scored against the criteria set out in the job description and person specifications attached to this advert. Applications are not assessed against the job advert so please ensure your applications are crafted against the Job Description and Person Specification contained within it.