Research Fellow

This post will be responsible for probing the basis of sensory perception and host-finding behaviours in entomopathogenic nematode
species. Specifically, the post holder will utilise sources of natural genetic variation, mutagenic strains and selective breeding
approaches in order to identify molecular markers of behavioural traits using various molecular tools, including transcriptomics and
RNA interference. The post holder is expected to be an active member of the research team, assisting in the development of research proposals and the
planning and delivery of the research activity within a specified area so that the overall research objectives of the project are met.

MAJOR DUTIES:

Develop and plan an area of personal research and expertise, and/or undertake research under supervision within a specific
research project or as a member of a research team.
Design, develop and refine experimental apparatus, field research or experiments in order to obtain reliable data.
Carry out analyses, critical evaluations, and interpretations using methodologies and other techniques appropriate to area of
research.
Present regular progress reports on research to members of the research group or to external audiences to disseminate and
publicise research findings.
Prepare, often in consultation with supervisor, material for publication in national and international journals and presentations at
international conferences.
Assist grant holder in the preparation of funding proposals and applications to external bodies.
Carry out routine administrative tasks associated with the research project/s to ensure that project/s are completed on time and
within budget. These might include organisation of project meetings and documentation, financial control, risk assessment of
research activities.
Carry out occasional undergraduate supervision, demonstrating or lecturing duties within the post holder’s area of expertise and
under the direct guidance of a member of academic staff.
Read academic papers, journals and textbooks to keep abreast of developments in own specialism and related disciplines.
Assist grant holder in various commercialisation activities.



Planning and Organising: Plan for specific aspects of research programmes. Timescales range from 1-6 months in advance and contribute to research
group planning.
Plan for the use of research resources, laboratories and workshops where appropriate.
Plan own day-to day activity within framework of the agreed research programme.
Plan up to a year in advance to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for
conferences.
Coordinate and liaise with other members of the research group over work progress. Resource Management Responsibilities:
Ensure research resources are used in an effective and efficient manner.
Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research.

Internal and External Relationships:

Liaise on a regular basis with colleagues and students.
Build internal contacts and participate in internal networks for the exchange of information and to form relationships for future
collaboration.
Join external networks to share information and ideas.
Contribute to the School’s outreach programme by establishing links with local community groups, industries etc.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:

Have or be about to obtain a relevant PhD in parasitology / nematology.
At least 3 years relevant research experience.
Ability to contribute to broader management and administrative processes, such as project commercialisation activities.
Contribute to the School’s outreach programme by links with industry, community groups etc
Sufficient breadth and depth of specialist knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within
established research programmes.
Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
Ability to build contacts and participate in internal and external networks.
Demonstrable intellectual ability.
Ability to assess and organise resources. Good team working ability.

Full driving license or ability to meet the mobility requirements of the post to facilitate sample collection in the field, and travel in conjunction with commercialisation activities.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA:
Experience of working with entomopathogenic nematodes.
Hands on experience of the development of transcriptomic libraries and subsequent data analysis / presentation.
Experience of delivering presentations at national / international conferences.