Post-doctoral Research Assistant (PPS-0285-24)

Job title:

Post-doctoral Research Assistant (PPS-0285-24)

Company

Royal Veterinary College

Job description

Professor / Lecturer Location: Hawkshead (nr Potters Bar, Herts)
Salary: £39,719 to £40,976 Inclusive of London Weighting
Fixed Term / Full Time
Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Thursday 31 October 2024
Interview Date: Friday 15 November 2024
Reference: PPS-0285-24Post-Doctoral Research AssociateWe have an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to work on trying to understand whether it is possible to develop of a vaccine against methanogens. This project is funded through The Global Methane Hub/Bezos Earth Fund. The Postholder will be a member of the Molecular Immunology Group of Prof Dirk Werling at the Centre for Vaccinology and Regenerative Medicine of the RVC and will be co-supervised by Dr Rob Noad.Methane production by cows contributes to about 17% of global methane emissions. Methane is produced in the rumen and hindgut of animals by a group of Archaea known collectively as methanogens, with 89% of methane emitted from ruminants being produced in the rumen and exhaled through the nose and mouth. While estimates of methane released from ruminants vary based on geographical location, genetics, and feed (quality, processing, composition and intake), there is no question that we must reduce these emissions to reduce its impact on global warming. While some feed additives have shown promising results in reducing methane production, there is a clear need to understand more about the biology of methanogens, their potential interaction with the immune system, and the possibility to develop vaccines against them.The research project will aim to close some of these gaps in our knowledge, specifically trying to establish how/when methanogens colonise the gastrointestinal system of newborn calves, and how they interact (or not) with the developing immune system. The project is part of a larger international consortium that aims to identify new potential ways to reduce methane emission in a way that suits the environment as well as the animal.The successful candidate will undertake most of the experimental work on the project; testing hypotheses and analysing scientific data, reviewing and refining working hypotheses as appropriate; representing the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone. You will manage your own academic research and administrative activities, contribute ideas for new research projects, and develop ideas for generating research income. Other duties include adapting existing and developing new scientific techniques and experimental protocols.To be selected for this role, you must hold, a PhD/DPhil in a relevant area (bacteriology/microbiology/ molecular biology), it would also be beneficial to have experience in growing difficult to culture bacteria, next generation sequencing analysis, and/or experimental work with calves. You will possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes and will be able to manage your own academic research and associated activities. It is essential that the post holder has excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publications, present research proposals andresults, and represent the research group at meetings.The post is available ASAP, and will be based at the Hawkshead Campus of the RVC (AL9 7TA). Informal enquiries may be directed to the PIs Dr Rob Noad ( ) and Prof Dirk Werling ( ).The closing date for applications is midnight on 31 October 2024, with interviews are likely to be held on November 15th, 2024.While this is a full-time role, we welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part- time working or other flexible working arrangements.Further details:We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.The RVC values Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and therefore welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities. Balancing both the needs of the business with those of our staff, we will consider applications to work on a flexible basis.Find JobsSearch Jobs:Existing Account / Staff MemberDo you have an existing account, or are you a member of staff?New UserFor new applicants, please register for an account

Expected salary

£39719 – 40976 per year

Location

London

Job date

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 07:27:18 GMT

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