Research Associate

at  University of Glasgow

JOB PURPOSE

The successful candidate will join the School of Infection and Immunity at the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR) and will play a key role in a multidisciplinary research program focused on the development of next-generation diagnostic tools for viral infections, particularly using cutting-edge CRISPR technology. This project aims to establish rapid, scalable diagnostics for high-consequence infectious diseases, including Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF). Working under the guidance of Principal Investigator Professor Deborah Williamson and collaborators such as Professor Emma Thomson, the candidate will develop and optimise diagnostic assays and conduct field-testing in collaboration with international partners.
The candidate will have the opportunity to lead the development and validation of innovative diagnostics, integrating bioinformatic design of assays with advanced laboratory techniques for pathogen detection. Additionally, the candidate may have the opportunity to undertake field testing of assays in collaboration with international partners.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Lead the planning and execution of research projects focusing on the development of diagnostic tools for the detection of viral pathogens, including CRISPR-based assays.
2. Utilise bioinformatic pipelines for designing diagnostics assays.
3. Conduct laboratory experiments to optimise diagnostic assays, including work on clinical samples.
4. Collaborate with international partners to access clinical samples and conduct pilot field testing of diagnostic tools.
5. Establish and maintain a research profile and reputation, as well as that of the research team, by securing a track record of publications of international quality and contributing to the research impact in terms of economic and societal benefits.
6. Survey the research literature and environment, understand the research challenges associated with the project and subject area, and develop/implement a suitable research strategy.
7. Keep up to date with current knowledge and recent advances in the field/discipline.
8. Presentation of work at international and national conferences, at internal and external seminars, colloquia and workshops to develop and enhance our research profile.
9. Take a leading role in the identification of potential funding sources and to assist in the development of proposals to secure funding from internal and external bodies to support future research.
   10.Take a leading role in team/group meetings/seminars/workshops and School research group activities to enhance the wider knowledge, outputs and culture of the CVR.
10. Take the lead in the organisation, supervision, mentoring and training of undergraduate and/or postgraduate students and less experienced members of the project team to ensure their effective development.
11. Generate, manage, document, maintain and store the data generated with the standards described in the project.
12. Perform administrative tasks related to the activities of the project, including Budgets/Expenditure/ordering, and contribute to laboratory management and general laboratory duties.
13. Engage in personal, professional and career development, to enhance both specialist and transferable skills in accordance with desired career trajectory.
14. Contribute to the enhancement of the University’s international profile in line with the University’s strategic Plan, World Changers Together.