Research Technician in Heat Stress and Insect Health

University of Leeds

Available on part time (50% fte), fixed term basis until 29th August 2028 (to complete specific time limited work). This role will be based on the university campus. We are also open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

Do you have a background in insect husbandry or experiments with laboratory model species? Are you looking to further your career in one of the UK’s leading research intensive Universities?

The current climate crisis means that understanding the impacts of climate change on organisms is urgently needed. However, research has largely focused on the impact high temperature has on survival. However, in most animals, males typically lose their fertility at a far lower temperature than that required to kill them. In this BBSRC-funded project, we aim to investigate the impacts of heatwaves and mechanisms that underlie sensitivity to heat stress.

In this project, we will investigate how simulated heatwaves impact: 1) health and reproduction depending on age 2) genetic mechanisms through gene expression and gene interference and 3) whether early life heat stress impacts healthy ageing. These experiments will use a combination of molecular/ cellular techniques (RNAseq and RT-qPCR) and health assays (reproductive output, learning assays, in the lab model species Drosophila fruit fly. Having identified candidate genes, you will test these functionally by attempting to alter the sensitivity of D. melanogaster through RNAi and use of chemical inhibitors. This project will be led day-to-day by a PDRA as part of our project team, based in Leeds in the lab of Prof Amanda Bretman in collaboration with Dr Elizabeth Duncan (Leeds), Prof Claudia Fricke (Halle) and Prof Rhonda Snook (Stockholm).

The University of Leeds and the Faculty of Biological Sciences are committed to providing equal opportunities for all and offer a range of family friendly policies. The University is a charter member of Athena SWAN (the national body that promotes gender equality in higher education), and the Faculty of Biological Sciences has received a prestigious Silver award. We are proud to be an inclusive Faculty that values all staff, and are happy to consider job share applications and requests for flexible working arrangements from our employees. Our Athena SWAN webpage provides more information.

Please note that due to Home Office visa requirements, this role is not suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants. Information on other visa options is available at: https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact: Prof Amanda Bretman, Professor in Behavioural Ecology, Email: a.j.bretman@leeds.ac.uk