Research Technician / Specialist Research Technician

Applications are invited for a full‑time, fixed‑term Research Technician / Specialist Research Technician to join the laboratory of Dr Nela Nikolic in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Southampton. Appointment will be made at either Research Technician or Specialist Research Technician level, commensurate with the skills, qualifications and experience of the appointee.

The role supports a two‑year externally funded research programme focused on the development of phage‑based therapies for biofilm‑associated bacterial infections. The project examines how Escherichia coli withstands antibiotic and bacteriophage treatments, with the aim of contributing to the development of next‑generation antimicrobial strategies. The research spans microbiology, virology, infection biology and single‑cell biology and contributes to international efforts to address antimicrobial resistance.

The role holder will work with Dr Nikolic and will engage with PhD researchers, Master’s students, and student interns within the research group. The post involves taking responsibility for defined components of the research programme, alongside contributing to the effective delivery of laboratory‑based research. Key activities include supporting experimental workflows such as phage isolation and host-phage interaction studies, which underpin understanding of bacterial survival and therapeutic development. The role requires applying a broad range of microbiological and molecular biology techniques, for example, bacterial growth assays, genetic manipulation approaches, phage, biofilm and infection assays, and quantitative analyses at both population and single‑cell levels. The post holder will also contribute to experiments involving fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and omics‑based approaches. In addition to experimental activities, the role includes contributing to the operational needs of the laboratory, such as maintaining bacterial and phage collections, adhering to relevant safety and regulatory requirements, and ensuring accurate and systematic recording of experimental data. The role requires strong organisational capability, reliability and attention to detail.

The post is based within a research environment with strengths in microbiology, phage biology, biofilms, single‑cell analysis and antimicrobial resistance. The role offers opportunities for technical skill development, interdisciplinary research exposure and career progression. Subject to performance and funding availability, there may be opportunities for extension or further roles.

About you: You will have practical laboratory experience in microbiology, ideally involving bacterial pathogens and/or bacteriophages, together with experience using molecular biology techniques. Experience with fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry or infection‑related models is desirable but not essential, as training will be provided where required. You will be able to work independently and within a research team, demonstrate analytical and problem‑solving capability, and communicate clearly and professionally.

Our commitment to you: The University of Southampton provides access to training, mentoring and professional development opportunities. You will be part of a research community that promotes equality, diversity, inclusion, wellbeing and career development, and is committed to a professional and respectful working environment.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews: N.Nikolic@soton.ac.uk

General enquiries: recruitment@soton.ac.uk

To apply, please upload your CV and a cover letter outlining how your skills, qualifications and experience meet the requirements of the role.