Research Associate in Evolutionary Microbiology

Mutations are fundamental for adaptation, evolution and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Our previous work shows that high-density bacterial populations have lower spontaneous mutation rates (Kraovec et al., Nature Commun., http://doi.org/skb; Kraovec et al., Plos Biology, http://doi.org/cb9s), a phenomenon dubbed density-associated mutation rate plasticity.

We recently discovered that the negative relationship between mutation rate and population density arises from the collective ability of microbial populations to control hydrogen peroxide (Green et al., Plos Biology, http://doi.org/m8zt). Importantly, the reduction in mutation rate in denser populations is restored in peroxide degradation-deficient cells by the presence of wild-type cells in a mixed population.

The project will test the overarching hypothesis that mutation rate is a dynamic trait shaped by bacterial community composition. The aim is to quantify mutation rates in mixed communities composed of aerobic and/or anaerobic bacterial species and determine how composition of the community modifies mutation rates and mutational spectra. The candidate will quantify mutation rates with fluctuation tests or advanced super-resolution microscopy.

This timely project will greatly advance the fundamental understanding of mutation rates in mixed communities. It is also medically important because understanding the mutation rate of the community may help in identifying mechanisms that promote or hamper emergence of AMR.

Main responsibilities

This is a 30-month full-time position aiming to start in December 2024 (negotiable).

The ideal candidate is an outstanding experimentalist who holds (or expects to hold shortly) a PhD (or equivalent) in microbial evolution, microbial ecology, microbiology or related fields.

They should have excellent technical skills in the lab, extensive and up-to-date knowledge in evolutionary microbiology, mutagenesis and DNA repair and a keen interest in live fluorescence microscopy and microfluidics. Enthusiasm for the project and a strong interest in crossing research fields are essential.

The successful candidate will carry out microbiology protocols, a cutting-edge microfluidics and live single-molecule localisation microscopy, fluorescently label bacterial proteins and regularly interact with enthusiastic team of outstanding scientists in Rok’s group and widely in MERman https://sites.manchester.ac.uk/merman/

Faculty Introduction

The integrated structure of our Faculty enables a truly translational approach to biology, medicine and health - from pure discovery science through to clinical application and patient care. It also encourages collaborative working, enabling staff to deliver innovative, world-leading research that has a very real and positive impact on people’s lives, as well as high-quality education and training to over 11,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.

Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Rok Krasovec

Email: rok.krasovec@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.