Postdoctoral Research Associate - Viral immunology Location: Liverpool Salary: £39,906 - £42,254 per annum Contract: Fixed-term contract until 30th April 2028 We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our Immunology of Infectious Diseases research team, working on a project focused on studying host immunological and viral factors driving severe dengue virus infection. Under the supervision of the Reader of Immunology, you will identify immune signatures predictive of severe dengue using experimental and bioinformatic methods. You will work with datasets from a Vietnamese dengue patient cohort generated using cutting-edge methodologies including flow cytometry, single-cell RNA sequencing, genomics and proteomics. You will further investigate these signatures in blood samples from dengue patients using established immunological assays and develop novel assays. Techniques used in this role include PBMC and dengue virus culture, spectral flow cytometry, T-cell functional assays and proteomics/RNA sequencing. Key responsibilities include: Lead the research project and contribute with innovative ideas Work in high containment CL-3 laboratories following safety guidelines and adhering to regulatory standards and SOPs Handle samples derived from individuals with laboratory confirmed dengue infection Implement high throughput workflows to undertake laboratory analyses in CL-2 and CL-3 laboratories, including PBMC isolation, virus culture, spectral flow cytometry, T-cell functional assays and proteomics/RNA sequencing Analyse large experimental datasets using statistical and visualisation tools (e.g. FlowJo, R/Python) and work closely with computational biologists Collaborate with scientists and clinicians across Asia and Africa, building and fostering equitable and productive partnerships Data Analysis and Communication Accurately document laboratory activities and results, supporting traceability and quality control Analyse and interpret disease characterisation data Work with research teams and partners to meet project timelines and objectives Present research findings at meetings, conferences and workshops Engage with academic and industry partners to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaborative research endeavours Prepare manuscripts, technical reports, and assist in funding proposals Mentorship and Training Mentor and train junior researchers, PhD students, technicians and visitors Foster a collaborative research environment to encourage skill development and innovation The ideal candidate will demonstrate: PhD in a relevant discipline such as immunology or viral immunology Experience in working with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells Experience in performing high dimensional flow cytometry and related data analyses Experience in performing virus infections of cells in vitro Experience in general cell biology and molecular biology techniques Experience in omics technologies (e.g., RNA sequencing, proteomics) Basic bioinformatic knowledge and ability to work with large datasets Ability to plan and manage own research, troubleshoot, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records. Experience in academic paper writing/evidence of published paper authorship and international presentations Proven experience of ability to synthesise research information for a range of audiences (e.g., academic, governmental, and public) Innovative and critical thinking skills to tackle complex scientific challenges and a self-motivated approach to work (For a full list of essential and desirable criteria please refer to the job description and person specification) Additional benefits of joining LSTM: 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, plus Christmas closure days Generous occupational pension schemes Government backed “cycle to work” scheme. Affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre A range of additional family friendly policies Application Process: To apply for the position please follow the apply link and upload your CV and covering letter. Due to the volume of applications, we receive, we may close our vacancies early. It is therefore advisable to apply as early as possible if you would like to be considered for a role. 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. LSTM is committed to upholding freedom of speech and academic freedom within the law for all its members. Candidates will not be disadvantaged or adversely impacted for exercising their free speech within the law during our recruitment processes. For more information, see our Freedom of Speech Code of practice https://www.lstmed.ac.uk/about/policies-and-procedures/freedom-of-speech-code-of-practice. 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 LI-hybrid LI-ST