Microbiology Research Assistant

Applications are invited for a Microbiology Research Assistant to join the Laboratory of Arjan Narbad in the Food, Microbiome and Health programme at Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB), based in Norwich, UK.

Background:

The Narbad group at QIB has a broad interest in the microbial ecology of the gastrointestinal tract and the role of the complex gut microbiome in health and disease. We are also investigating the application of competitive exclusion in humans to combat bacterial infections. We have interest in modulating the gut microbiome using a number of approaches including the application of probiotics, prebiotics and faecal microbiota transplants for the treatments of microbiome-associated disorders. We work closely with the Clinical Research Facility of the Norfolk and Norwich University hospital to undertake human intervention and clinical trials.

The role:

Probiotic bacteria are known to provide many health benefits to the human host. However, in order for these benefits to be realised the probiotics need to have a long shelf life and be able survive exposure to both the acidic conditions of the stomach and bile acids during transit in the gut. The aim of this project is to develop suitable encapsulation technologies to improve the survival of probiotic bacteria during processing and maintain viability on storage. We are looking for an experienced microbiologist to undertake microbiological culturing work and to operate in vitro colon fermentation models.

The ideal candidate:

We are seeking a microbiology graduate with an interest in probiotics and human health to investigate the application of encapsulation of probiotic bacteria to improve the shelf life and efficacy of the probiotic products. This is a short 10-month contract to work with an industry partner. The post holder will conduct microbiology assays and make use of in vitro colon models to assess the impact of probiotic on the structure and function of the human gut microbiome.

Additional information:

Salary on appointment will be within the range £28,550 to £35,500 per annum depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time post for a contract of 10 months, we welcome candidates looking for job share, full-time or part-time working patterns

For further information and details of how to apply, please click the 'Fast Apply' button.

Please note, this post does not meet UKVI requirements to provide visa sponsorship.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sectors of society. The Institute supports equality of opportunity within the workplace and expects all employees to share and display these values. To support our commitment, we have a range of family, faith and diversity friendly working arrangements to help all staff achieve excellence in their area of work.

As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy.

About the Quadram Institute:

The Quadram Institute is a new interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to understanding how food and microbes interact to promote health and prevent disease. Its mission is to deliver healthier lives through innovation in gut health, microbiology and food. A partnership between Quadram Institute Bioscience, the University of East Anglia, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and BBSRC, it brings together scientists and clinicians in a state-of-the-art building on the Norwich Research Park. This is one of Europe’s largest centres of life sciences and home of the John Innes Centre and The Earlham Institute.

The closing date for applications will be 14 January 2025.

The Quadram Institute Bioscience is a registered charity (No. 1058499) and is an Equal Opportunities Employer.