"Research Associate/Fellow (FTC)"

Applications are invited for the 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 partners in the UK and South Africa, aimed at understanding the biology of adaptation in fungal pathogens. The post will use classical, genomic, molecular, and bioinformatic techniques to investigate the sexual biology of Aspergillus fumigatus, a principal cause of aspergillosis disease in humans. Specific aims include understanding 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 undertake independent research and work as part of a team, using appropriate methodologies and techniques, and will be responsible for writing up work for publication. Candidates must hold a PhD or be near submission in a relevant field of Microbiology, ideally involving Fungal Biology/Medical Mycology. They must understand microbial laboratory practices, have skills in microbial culture of fungi, be familiar with molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA and RNA extraction, electrophoresis, PCR, qRT-PCR, fungal transformation), and possess bioinformatic skills. Previous experience 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, submit a cover letter and full academic curriculum vitae. Informal enquiries may be addressed to Paul Dyer at paul.dyer@nottingham.ac.uk. For background, see: doi:10.3390/jof6040258, doi:10.1038/nature07528, doi:10.1016/j.fbr.2020.10.003, doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.3002278, nature.com/articles/s41564-022-01091-2.

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