Research Associate/Fellow (FTC) (MED228825)

Applications are invited to the above role to support the principal investigator Professor Paul Dyer in conducting research in the area of fungal biology, specifically to investigate the sexual biology of the opportunistic pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. This post is part of a collaborative multinational Wellcome Trust award involving academic and medical collaborative partners in the UK and South Africa with the aim of understanding the biology of adaptation in fungal pathogens. The post will use a combination of classical, genomic, molecular and bioinformatic techniques to investigate the sexual biology of Aspergillus fumigatus, a principal cause of aspergillosis disease in humans. Specific aims are to understand the genetic basis of differences in sexual fertility between isolates and how gene flow contributes to pathogen evolution and development of antifungal resistance. The post holder will be expected to undertake independent research as well as working as part of a team. This will include using approaches or methodologies and techniques appropriate to the type of research, and they will be responsible for writing up their work in order to contribute to published outcomes.

The role holder will have the opportunity to use their initiative and creativity to identify areas for research, develop research methods and extend their research portfolio

Candidates must hold a PhD, or be near to submission of a PhD, in a relevant field of Microbiology, ideally involving Fungal Biology/Medical Mycology. They must understand microbial laboratory practices and have existing skills in microbial culture of fungi. They must be familiar with molecular biology techniques (e.g. DNA and RNA extraction, electrophoresis, PCR and qRT-PCR) including fungal transformation and possess bioinformatic skills. Previous experience of working with filamentous fungi and/or yeasts is essential, with experience of Aspergillus species or other pathogens highly desirable. 

This full-time fixed-term role is available immediately for 36 months. To apply for the post please submit a cover letter and full academic curriculum vitae.

Informal enquiries may be addressed Paul Dyer at paul.dyer@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this E-mail address will not be accepted. For background to the work please see: doi:10.3390/jof6040258, doi:10.1038/nature07528, doi.org/10.1016/j.fbr.2020.10.003, doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.3002278, nature.com/articles/s41564-022-01091-2.

The School of Life Sciences holds an Athena Swan Gold Award, in recognition of our commitment to supporting and advancing equality and inclusion in the Life Sciences. 

Closing Date: 10 Oct 2025
Category: Research and Teaching (R&T)