We are seeking to appoint a pathogen genomics researcher who will work within Prof Kat Holt’s team addressing questions of relevance to the development and deployment of a vaccine against neonatal sepsis. The successful applicant will use genomic epidemiology approaches, working with a growing global network of collaborators, to explore the burden of neonatal sepsis attributable to local nosocomial outbreaks; the frequency of antigen turnover in the pathogen population; and genetic correlates of severity in neonates.

This is an exciting opportunity for an early career scientist to apply their pathogen genomics skills in the global health field, within a collaborative and supportive team based at LSHTM (see holtlab.net). This role can be undertaken flexibly with respect to the amount of time you choose to spend in the office vs working remotely. You will also have the opportunity to work closely with Dr Kelly Wyres at Monash University in Australia; and interact with the KlebNET teams at Oxford and Institut Pasteur (see klebnet.org) as well as other global experts in genomic epidemiology and vaccine development for Klebsiella pneumoniae. You will have opportunities for career development, including support to develop your own research ideas and proposals, and to gain experience in MSc-level teaching and/or supervising research students (depending on your interests).

The successful applicant will have a postgraduate degree, ideally a doctoral degree, in a relevant topic, relevant experience in genomic analysis of bacterial pathogens, including use of command-line tools for sequence analysis, phylogenetics and phylodynamics, evidence of excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, evidence of good organizational skills, including effective time management. Further particulars are included in the job description.

The post is available for two years and is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation until 31 December 2024. Salary is on the Academic Grade 6 scale in the range £41,829 - £47,503 per annum (inclusive of London Weighting). The post will be subject to the LSHTM terms and conditions of service. Annual leave entitlement is 30 working days per year, pro rata for part time staff. In addition to this there are discretionary “Wellbeing Days”. Membership of the Pension Scheme is available. The post is based in London.

LSHTM has flexible/remote working (but must be UK based).

This role is open to international applicants, and the successful applicant would be sponsored for a UK work visa if needed.

PDF with full job description is available at the link above.