Overview
Full-time, Fixed-term appointment for 3 years
Based in Liverpool with international travel
LSTM is a world-leading institution in tropical medicine and global health. The Centre for Snakebite Research & Interventions (CSRI) is a globally recognised programme that conducts basic, translational, and clinical research to reduce the burden of snakebite envenoming. The Centre works with partners in Africa and Asia to deliver impactful, evidence-based interventions in some of the world's most affected communities.
About the Role
The Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine is offering an exciting opportunity for a Post Doctoral Research Associate to join its world-renowned Centre for Snakebite Research & Interventions (CSRI).
Snakebite is a neglected tropical disease affecting hundreds of thousands of people annually, with a significant burden in sub-Saharan Africa. This role will support new antivenom clinical trials across Africa by developing and applying laboratory assays to better understand envenomation and treatment outcomes.
The successful candidate will play a key role in developing and applying diagnostic assays using clinical samples to:
* Identify the biting snake species, and
* Quantify antivenom-venom complexes in patient samples
This work will support clinical trial endpoints, enhance understanding of envenoming dynamics, and contribute to the global effort to improve snakebite treatment and reduce mortality.
Key responsibilities
* Evaluate polyclonal antibody responses in serum samples of venom-immunised sheep
* Develop and/or optimise ELISA based quantification of venom toxins in sera using polyclonal antibodies
* Develop and validate PCR-based detection of snake DNA in swabs collected from the site of snakebite
* Develop and validate ELISA based assays to quantify venom-antivenom complexes in clinical samples
* Perform data analysis on experimental results and deliver reports at the times needed to the supervisory team
* Assist in the day-to-day supervision of laboratory staff and students
* Actively participate in all lab maintenance activity
* Significantly contribute to the planning and advancement of research programmes
* Contribute to the publication of research outcomes in appropriate peer reviewed journals and relevant grant writing activities
* Participate in teaching activities and student supervision
Qualifications and profile
* PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g. biology, biochemistry, immunology, molecular biology)
* Laboratory research experience at postdoctoral level
* Experience developing and validating bioassays
* Experience performing and interpreting scientific data
* Experience working with clinical samples from snakebite patients
* Experience with immunoassays and PCR
* Experience communicating scientific findings at research conferences
* Experience developing biomarker-based measurements of venom pathology in clinical samples
* Knowledge of snakebite, venom biology and toxin variation
For a full list of essential and desirable criteria please refer to the job description and person specification
In return we offer
* 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, and additional Christmas closure days
* Generous occupational pension schemes
* Government backed "cycle to work" scheme
* Affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre
* Plus, a host of additional family friendly policies
Application Process: To apply for the position please click on the apply link and upload your CV and covering letter.
Please Note: Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may close our vacancies earlier than the advertised deadline. Therefore, we strongly recommend applying as early as possible to ensure your application is considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Inclusion is central to our values at LSTM
We seek to attract and recruit people who reflect the diversity across our communities, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, nationality, faith or belief, social background, age and disability. LSTM selects candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience.
We welcome conversations about flexible working and applications from those returning to employment after a break from their careers.
About LSTM
Founded in 1898 and the oldest of its kind in the world, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in tropical diseases. Through the creation of effective links with governments, NGOs, private organisations and global institutions and by responding to the health needs of communities, LSTM aims to promote improved health, particularly for people of the less developed/resource poorest countries in the tropics and sub-tropics.
Look at some of the great work we have achieved over the past year by viewing our annual report: https://www.lstmed.ac.uk/about/annual-reports-and-financial-statements
LSTM actively promotes Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding Policies
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