About the role

We are seeking an ambitious and motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join an MRC-funded project investigating the mechanisms controlling antimicrobial resistance gene transfer in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a major human and animal pathogen.

The successful candidate will work with Professor Jodi Lindsay at Royal Veterinary College, Dr Adam Witney at City St George’s, and Dr Alex McCarthy at Imperial College London, on the MRC-funded project: “Antimicrobial Resistance Gene Transfer in MRSA: Novel Mechanisms, Barriers, and Environmental Controls.”

This interdisciplinary project combines molecular microbiology, bacterial genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and tissue culture approaches to understand the mechanisms controlling horizontal gene transfer in MRSA. The postholder will contribute to experimental and analytical aspects of the project, with opportunities to develop independent ideas, publish high-impact research, and present findings at national and international conferences.

The post also offers a supportive, collaborative environment with opportunities for mentoring, training, and career development.

About you

You hold or be close to completing a PhD in microbiology or a related discipline. We are particularly interested in candidates with:

expertise in bacterial genetics, genomics, or bioinformatics
evidence of scientific productivity, such as publications, preprints, and/or conference presentations
excellent communication and organisational skills
the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team

Experience in S. aureus, antimicrobial resistance, bacterial genetics, or horizontal gene transfer would be advantageous but is not essential.

About us

The Royal Veterinary College is ranked the top veterinary school globally. Based at the Camden campus in central London, the Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences integrates teaching and research across physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, and genetics. The successful candidate will join a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment with strong links to clinical, veterinary, and academic partners across London.

The RVC is committed to supporting the professional development and wellbeing of its researchers and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

What we offer

The successful candidate will benefit from:

a collaborative and supportive research culture
opportunities for training and skills development
opportunities to attend and present at international conferences
support for career progression and fellowships

We offer a generous reward package and benefits including:

Competitive and attractive pension package
Generous 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays/concessionary days)
A range of family friendly policies, including adoption, maternity and paternity pay and leave.
On site café and restaurant
Cycle to work scheme.
Free mini-bus service to and from Potters Bar station and Hawkshead Campus
Free membership to the Sports and Wellbeing Centre located on site at Hawkshead campus (including gym and fitness classes)

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Jodi Lindsay at jlindsay@rvc.ac.uk