Research Scientist Job Opportunity
We are seeking a highly skilled Research Scientist to join our team in the field of microbiology. The successful candidate will have a strong background in research and development, with experience in generating plant-based fermented foods, conducting colon model experiments, and performing cell culture-based bioassays.
About the Role:
The Research Officer will be responsible for leading a project focused on the generation of novel plant-based fermented foods and downstream testing of their effects on the faecal microbiota of children afflicted with egg and milk allergies. The successful candidate will work closely with our team to identify correlations between faecal microbiota profiles and anti-allergenic properties of these novel plant-based fermented foods.
* Generate novel plant-based fermented foods using substrates such as plant-based milk alternatives (PBMAs), oat-based substrates, amongst others by using previously characterised microbial strains from our collection banks.
* Use ex vivo models of the human distal colon to evaluate the effects of these novel plant-based fermented foods on the faecal microbiota of children afflicted with egg and milk allergies.
* Identify changes in community composition, functional potential and diversity through 16S amplicon sequencing from faecal samples used in the above-mentioned colon model assays.
* Isolate faecal water from the colon model experiments to identify associated metabolites for their anti-allergenic effects, using cell culture-based bioassays.
* Perform correlation analysis between the faecal microbiota and metabolite profiles and anti-allergenic effects.
Requirements:
To be considered for this role, you will need:
* An honours Level 8 degree in Microbiology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology or a related discipline.
* A postgraduate degree and/or research experience in Microbiology, Immunology, Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry would be a distinct advantage.
* Demonstrated research and technical expertise in generating plant-based fermented foods, performing colon model experiments or cell culture-based bioassays.
* Evidence of research activity (publications, conference presentations, awards) and future scholarly output (working papers, research proposals etc.).
* Excellent project management, analytical, report writing and data analysis skills.
What We Offer:
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including opportunities for professional development and growth. As a member of our team, you will have the chance to work on exciting projects, collaborate with colleagues and PhD students, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in your field.
Contact Information:
Please note that this is an open public competition. Should a current serving staff member be successful in their application through open public competition for this post, their current contract of employment will come to an end on taking up this post.