Job opportunity

Postdoctoral Research Assistant - UOD2277

Posted on 30 July 2026 | Reference: UOD2277

Closing date

Thursday, 27 August 2026, 23:59

Salary

£36,024 - £37,174 per annum
Grade 7

Contract type

Fixed Term
2 years
Campus

City

School/Directorate

School of Life Sciences

Unit/Department

Plant Sciences

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT

Faculty of Life Sciences

Full-Time

Grade 7 (£36,024 - £37,174 per annum)

The Faculty of Life Sciences is internationally recognised for world-leading research in biological and biomedical sciences. Our work explores the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning health and disease, with impact across human, animal and environmental systems.

We are home to a collaborative community of over 600 academic and professional services staff and more than 100 doctoral researchers, supported by high-quality facilities and a culture that promotes innovation, integrity and inclusion.

Our research-led teaching supports undergraduate and postgraduate students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills for future careers. We also have a strong track record of translating research into real-world impact, including successful spin-out companies.

About the Role

We are seeking an exceptional postdoctoral research assistant to join the team of Dr Didier Ndeh (PI), Faculty of Life Sciences, at the University of Dundee. In this role, you will contribute to research on the metabolism of complex carbohydrates in various microbial systems (human, plant-derived and soil microbes) and the development of advanced tools for their profiling. This work has the potential to foster innovations in areas such as nutrition, disease management and prevention.

The postholder will provide day-to-day research support to the Principal Investigator (PI) and other laboratory staff. They will perform experiments and other laboratory tasks under the guidance of the principal investigator and ensure compliance with institutional health and safety regulations. They will also assist in analysing data and preparing manuscripts for publication.

Candidates must hold a PhD (or equivalent) in the Biosciences or a relevant field.

Key Responsibilities

You will be responsible for:

  • Investigating microbial metabolic pathways for complex glycan metabolism using a combination of biochemical, genetic, spectroscopic and structural biology approaches
  • Performing bacterial genetic manipulation, protein expression and purification, carbohydrate assays, fungal and oomycete cultures and genetic manipulation
  • Expression of bacterial, fungal and oomycete genes in various expression systems
  • Working as part of an interdisciplinary team and collaborating with other researchers within and outside the research group and contributing to manuscripts, publications and conferences/seminars

Who We're Looking For

  • A highly motivated individual with a PhD and strong Bioscience or Biochemistry (or relevant) background
  • A candidate with strong background in protein and carbohydrate biochemistry
  • A hardworking candidate with excellent organisational skills
  • Candidates will have high-quality research outputs and effective writing and communication skills.

Why Join the University of Dundee

At the University of Dundee, we are driven by a clear purpose: to transform lives through education, research and innovation.

Find out more about working at the University of Dundee: Working at the University of Dundee

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an environment where colleagues feel valued, supported and empowered to succeed.

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Application closing date

Thursday, 27 August 2026, 23:59

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