Job Description
Main Purpose of the Job
Antibiotic resistance is a global health crisis threatening the utility of antibiotics for common and life-threatening infections and their ability to protect those with vulnerable immune systems (, cancer and surgical patients). The threat is exacerbated by misconceptions surrounding antibiotic resistance which have led to consistently failing initiatives and little decline in global antibiotic resistance rates (Amábile-Cuevas, 2022). Our partners at the University of Essex have shown that educational material reduces inappropriate demand for antibiotics in clinical practice (Thorpe et al., 2021). Therefore, we want to use microscopy to tell the real story of how antibiotic resistance works. For this 5-week internship, we are looking for an individual to help shape the creative direction of the project and carry out advanced microscopy.
The Quadram Institute’s high-quality microscopy facilities offer the unique opportunity to video the explosive response of antibiotic susceptible bacteria challenged with antibiotics and contrast it with the resurgence of resistant bacteria. We want to assemble at least one educational video and believe that sharing it with schools, primary care providers, and on social media platforms will be a compelling means of educating how antibiotics work, that some bacteria are/become resistant, and why antibiotic stewardship is so important.
The post holder will be part of an Institute Development Grant funded project to generate microscopy footage of bacteria and their responses to antibiotics, visualising the explosive activity of some of the antibiotics being tested. From generating a library of video footage, the post holder will assemble a short-form video to effectively communicate antibiotic resistance. The post holder will receive training on microscopes and on working in a microbiology research laboratory.
Main Activities & Responsibilities
The post holder will be working alongside the supervisory team and collaborators to generate microscopy videos, grow bacterial cultures, and prepare stocks of antibiotics.Developing ideas on style, story, and audio.Communicate results with stakeholders through meetings and presentations.Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, Scientific Integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements.As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post
Person Profile
Education & Qualifications
RequirementGood standard of education with a minimum of 5 GCSE qualifications (or equivalent)Further Education
Specialist Knowledge & Skills
RequirementContent creationHealth & Safety awareness
Relevant Experience
RequirementExperience with visual audio media content creationExperience working with video editing software (, Premire Pro, DaVinci Resolve) or image editing (, Canva, Photoshop, Lightroom)Experience with microscopy and/or camera lensesExperience working in a category 2 laboratory culturing bacteria
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
RequirementGood ability to work independentlyAbility to follow instructions / standard operating proceduresGood interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a diverse and international teamGood communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to present complex information with clarityGood time management and organisational skillsGood record keepingStrong storytelling skills
Additional Requirements
RequirementPromotes equality and values diversityInterest in science communication and outreach Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to workAble to present a positive image of self, the group, and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the InstituteAbility to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriateAttention to detail