Research Associate in Chemical Ecology

Research Associate in Chemical Ecology

Grade 7 Starting salary GBP33,199 (Fixed-term until July 2021)

Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of GBP170 million, over 10,000 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research. Further information can be found at

This post represents an exciting opportunity for a well-motivated individual to join a team of staff in Keele University's School of Life Sciences and Centre for Applied Entomology and Parasitology (CAEP) and the Schools of Bioscience and Pharmacy at the University of Nottingham. The post is a joint appointment between the two Universities with approximately equal time spent at each but more at the University of Nottingham to begin with.

We require a Chemical Ecologist to work on our collaborative BBSRC award, 'Hijacking plant immunity: winners and losers in dual pest and pathogen attacks on a shared host' with the University of Nottingham. This project addresses a major outstanding question, in plant science and chemical ecology: how attacking organisms sharing a host plant affect each other by manipulating their host. The role involves performing experiments with aphids, plant pathogenic fungus and their wheat host; conducting mass spectrometry analysis for the quantification of fungal mycotoxins and metabolomics of the plant host and the aphid, and conducting chemical analysis of plant secondary metabolites and electrophysiological recordings with insect antennae to determine the biologically active compounds. The post will be based in the School of Life Sciences on the main Keele campus and at the School of Pharmacy at the University of Nottingham.

A Ph.D. in Chemical Ecology, Analytical Chemistry, Entomology, Plant Pathology or related discipline is required. We also require experience of bioassays with insects, analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry (GC-MS or LC-MS), keeping accurate records relating to experimental samples and results and good laboratory practice. We are looking for candidates with demonstrated ability to deliver high quality research, ability to plan and conduct experiments and ability to record and interpret data with attention to detail. Candidates should have strong interpersonal and communication skills, proficiency in the use of IT, ability to undertake statistical analyses, excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Keele University values equality and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.

Post Ref: KU.

Closing date for applications: 23 June 2019.

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