Research Assistant in Microbial Analysis of Drinking Water Systems

University of Sheffield - Mechanical, Aerospace & Civil Engineering

Job description:

Are you a molecular biologist or environmental microbiologist who wants to see your laboratory skills make a tangible impact on drinking water quality and public health?

We have an opportunity for you to join an applied interdisciplinary research team at the University of Sheffield as a Research Assistant in Microbial Analysis of Drinking Water Systems. The role offers the chance to apply and further develop technical expertise, while supporting delivery of research with relevance and impact beyond the laboratory.

The post involves working across the EPSRC-funded project “To Chlorinate or Not To Chlorinate” and industry-supported projects, including, analysing biofilms and bulk-water samples from varied drinking water assets. The work will involve generating high-quality molecular data from environmental and low-biomass samples. This includes DNA extraction, gene quantification (e.g. ddPCR) and sequencing library preparation, using established protocols.

The role also requires initial data processing and quality control, maintaining structured experimental records and helping to build well-curated project datasets. You will also gain experience in complementary analytical techniques such as assimilable organic carbon (AOC) quantification and flow cytometry, helping to generate multi-parameter datasets that support interpretation of interpret microbial behaviour in engineered systems.

There will be opportunities to assist with field sampling activities and to engage with water sector partners, offering insight into how laboratory findings can inform engineering and operational practice. You will become part of a motivating research environment that values collaboration, careful experimentation, and professional development.

We are seeking someone with a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Environmental Microbiology, or a related field, with practical laboratory experience. Experience working with complex environmental or low-biomass samples will be particularly valuable. Being comfortable with managing quantitative information, maintaining accurate records, and working both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team is encouraged.

This role would suit an organised, motivated researcher who enjoys laboratory work, takes pride in data integrity, and is keen to further develop their skills in environmental molecular microbiology within a research-intensive setting.

If you are excited by the prospect of applying your molecular microbiology skills to support delivery of research aspiring to improve resilience of drinking water systems, we would love to hear from you.

We are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and University.

We form teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to the greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.