Research Assistant in Oral Microbiology

University of Leeds - Faculty of Medicine & Health - School of Dentistry - Division of Oral Biology

Location:	Leeds
Salary:	£32,546 to £38,249 per annum. Grade 6
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On:	27th October 2025
Closes:	24th November 2025
Job Ref:	MHDEN1279

Location: Leeds - St James University Hospital / Main Campus

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Assistant (Postdoctoral) to join our dynamic and multidisciplinary team within the School of Dentistry's Oral Biology division. This strategically vital role is integral to advancing our cutting-edge research into the oral microbiome and the critical global challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This position, funded for three years as part of a recent professorial appointment, offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to a leading research group with a strong track record of impactful publications and successful grants.

You will play a pivotal role in developing and utilising state-of-the-art in vitro complex co-culture biofilm models to study the intricate mechanisms within the oral microbiome. A key focus of your work will involve sophisticated bioinformatic analyses, including the application of machine learning techniques, to predict taxonomic, antibiotic resistance profiles and phenotypes from 'omic data.

Your research interests will primarily revolve around the oral microbiome, with current projects encompassing both experimental in vitro modelling and advanced in silico analysis, with a particular emphasis on the resistome. You will be expected to draw from your skills and expertise to design innovative projects, foster collaborations, and actively contribute to securing additional research funding for the continuation, development, and dissemination of these high-impact projects.

You will be primarily based in the Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, St. James’ University Hospital campus, a vibrant research environment. Some aspects of your research may require work on the University of Leeds main campus.

We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

Please note that due to Home Office visa requirements, this role may only be suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants if they are eligible for salary concessions. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

What we offer in return

• 26 days holiday plus approx. 16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – That’s 42 days a year!
• Generous pension scheme options plus life assurance
• Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
• Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team, and self-development courses including languages, Creative Writing, Wellbeing Therapies and much more.
• Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.

And much more!

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:

Professor Thuy Do, Professor of Molecular Microbiology
Email: N.T.Do@leeds.ac.uk