| We have an exciting opportunity for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate to join the Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Programme (MLW) team. In this role, you will directly support Professor Henry Mwandumba, Head, Mucosal & Vascular Immunology Research Group (MUCIMM), MLW), focussing on developing a scientific understanding of the immunological consequences of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) strain diversity in human tuberculosis (TB).
The Mucosal & Vascular Immunology Group at MLW has led the field in translational research that has advanced our understanding of the impact of HIV-1 infection on lung immunity in humans and supported the strategic implementation of TB preventive therapy to reduce the high burden of HIV-associated TB in sub-Saharan Africa.
MLW has established one of the best immunology research programmes in Africa with three major themes: TB, HIV and Vascular diseases. The Group conducts innovative and impactful clinical research and trains scientists and clinicians to equip them with the relevant skills to address global health challenges. Our current research focus is on mapping and characterising the functions of lung immune cell subsets that play key roles in the immune response against respiratory infections such as TB and pneumonia. Findings from these studies will inform the development of novel strategies to enhance lung immunity and improve control of respiratory infections.
Key responsibilities include:
Research
- To conduct immunology and molecular laboratory work
- Undertake high-resolution transcriptomics and genomic analysis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex (MTBC) growth kinetic, immunophenotyping, and imaging analysis of TB samples.
- Undertake internationally recognised quality research in line with LSTM’s and MLW’s strategy that helps maintain LSTM’s and MLW’s reputation as global, research-intensive Institutions.
- Contributing as lead, senior and co-author in peer-reviewed outputs, as expected by the subject area/discipline in terms of types and volume of output which are internationally excellent and/or world leading to contribute to LSTM’s REF return
- Support and promote an active research and education culture that fosters the highest achievements, encourages originality and innovation and enriches the trainee learning experience.
- To keep accurate records of processed samples, to analyse and interpret the data generated in an appropriate manner.
- To design and conduct lab and other research work in a co-operative manner for the benefit of the research team, to provide assistance/guidance/supervision to research students and scientists as appropriate, to work on related projects, or share facilities, as required.
- To deputise for the Head of group in leading MUCIMM.
Education
- To contribute to teaching and learning activities which may include educational support and supervision, (including exam supervision and marking), PhD examination and supervision, classroom and online teaching, curriculum development, and membership of education and learning committees and groups.
- Monitor student/trainee progress and provide academic and related guidance, including oversight of the needs of students/trainees with special requirements.
Health & Safety
- Responsible for working in a safe manner adhering to local and legal requirements.
- Ensure staff access relevant training to maintain Quality Standards and safety.
- Ensure the health and safety of staff, trainees, students, and visitors in accordance with MLW and LSTM requirements.
Governance
- Ensure that the activities within the area of responsibility are undertaken in accordance with the governance, policy, and regulatory frameworks of MLW and LSTM.
The ideal candidate will possess the following:
- Post-graduate qualification (PhD) in Immunology or Molecular Biology
- Post-doctoral experience of working in a laboratory conducting research with the skills and technical platforms relevant to this post
- Experience of working to health and safety regulations
- Maintenance of laboratory data, book and record keeping
- Experience and competence in experimental design
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate at all levels
- Proven ability to write and produce research publications (i.e. as first author)
- Demonstrable attention to detail and accuracy, leading to high quality control of research data and results
- Ability to work as an integral, productive and co-operative member of a multi-disciplinary team in a flexible and competent manner and to liaise effectively with collaborators
- Ability to work with limited supervision and work under pressure to meet deadlines
- Ability to take initiative in a research laboratory
(For a full list of essential and desirable criteria please refer to the job description and person specification)
Application Process: To apply for the position please click on the apply link and upload your CV and covering letter.
About MLW
Our Vision:
To conduct high quality research to improve health and train the next generation of researchers. MLW has a vision of science driving health and wellbeing in Malawi. This is bold, ambitious, and challenging as Malawi is faced with challenges related to population density, climate change and environmental degradation, nutrition, education, and endemic diseases including HIV, TB, and malaria. MLW scientists have courage, commitment, energy, and belief – with these combined with excellent funding, facilities, and partnerships, we achieve great things.
Our Mission:
The MLW mission is to conduct high-quality research to improve health and to train the next generation of researchers.
Research Themes:
Research at MLW is nurtured in Themes. Research Themes catalyse the interactions between our 16 Research Groups, six Associate Research Groups, and four Research Support Units. Our Themes are:
- Social Sciences
- Population Health
- Infection Biology
- Vaccines
- Clinical & Experimental Medicine
- Maternal, Neonatal & Child
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