The University of Essex is a partner in the Wellcome Trust Innovation Flagships project OptiVaNTS - Optimising Vaccination for invasive non-Typhoidal Salmonella (iNTS) Disease in Africa. This multidisciplinary project is focused on the identification of the molecular determinants of iNTS Salmonella infection and corresponding correlates of immunological protection, leading to optimised vaccine development.
The Senior Research Officer will work closely with the Principal Investigator (Prof. Vassiliy Bavro, School of Life Sciences) to conduct research with interdisciplinary partner teams from OptiVaNTS, particularly liaising with the team of Prof. Adam Cunningham (University of Birmingham, UK) to analyse and identify antigen targets of protective antibodies on the outer membrane of Salmonella. The SRO will supervise and organise the large-scale expression of various proteinaceous targets, including anticipated integral membrane proteins. Responsibilities also include structural characterisation and immunological characterisation of the antigens in animal models of infection, optimisation of expression constructs for potential vaccine candidates, and supporting reporting requirements of the project while collaborating with other OptiVaNTS co-investigators.
Skills and Qualifications Required
The successful candidate will hold a relevant doctoral level degree in Protein Chemistry, Structural Biology, Biophysics, or a related discipline, or be close to completion of a PhD in the above areas. A BSc or MSc in Biology, Biophysics, Biochemistry, Genetics, Structural Biology, or a related discipline is also required.
We are looking for a candidate experienced in protein chemistry and recombinant protein production, specifically with experience in the expression and purification of membrane proteins. A sound understanding of protein structure and protein engineering is also required. The candidate should be confident in their ability to problem-solve and organise this ambitious and multifaceted project. The appointee will lead experimental laboratory work, data analyses, and publication writing. Previous experience with biophysical methods for protein-protein interactions and quality control of structural biology samples will be a bonus.
£37,099 to £40,521 per annum
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