Research Experience Placement

About the Role

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant (Research Experience Placement) to join the Laboratory of Nathalie Juge in the Gut Microbes and Health Programme at [Employer hidden] (QIB), based in Norwich, UK.

The main activity of the Juge group is centred on defining how gut bacteria adapt to the mucus lining of the intestine. We are studying how bacteria interact with mucins, which are the main proteins in mucus, and their associated sugar-based molecules called glycans. Unravelling the molecular basis of gut bacteria-mucus interaction will help us understand how to maintain a healthy relationship with our gut microbiota.

Under the supervision of Dr Andrew Bell and Dr Dimitris Latousakis, the successful candidate will carry out research to support the work of the Juge group. They will:

• Undertake the molecular heterologous expression and biochemical characterisation of putative enzymes involved in CDI in order to assess their function and specificity
• Study the molecular mechanisms that underpin the interaction of Clostridioides difficile with the intestinal mucus layer
• Undertake mucin glycosylation analyses using a range of analytical approaches

They will be given training in molecular biology and biochemical techniques to support their work. The student will join a large, multidisciplinary and dynamic team with opportunities to learn from other projects and expand their knowledge outside the remit of their project.

The Ideal Candidate

• Be in the middle years of an undergraduate degree in science, mathematics, engineering or veterinary studies
• Be expected to obtain a first or upper second class UK honours
• Have a keen interest in microbiology, biochemistry, enzymology, molecular biology or another related field

Additional Information

This is a full time 10 week placement with a salary based on £9.50 per hour. This role is supported by the UKRI-BBSRC Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership.

Further information and details of how to apply can be found here, or contact the Human Resources team on [contact hidden] or [contact hidden] quoting reference 1004071.

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

About 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. A partnership between [Employer hidden], 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.

How to Apply

The closing date for applications is 1 July 2021. Apply via the link above or contact HR. Reference: 1004071.