Research Assistant - Equine Influenza Surveillance Programme (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 October 2024 in the first instance.

Applications are invited for a research assistant to start as soon as possible to work on the equine influenza surveillance programme located in Cambridge University Vet School. This project is funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB).

Like other influenza viruses, equine influenza virus undergoes antigenic drift and is able to evade antibodies produced in response to vaccination. Vaccine strains for equine influenza therefore need to be updated regularly and a formal process of vaccine strain selection is in place, overseen by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The main focus of the research will be to isolate and cultivate equine influenza viruses from samples supplied to us by collaborating diagnostic laboratories, which are then sequenced and characterised antigenically. These data are collated and used for epidemiological studies and vaccine strain selection. We utilise various molecular biology techniques including RT-PCR, whole genome sequencing and reverse genetics.

Applicants should have an undergraduate or Master's degree in a science discipline, including significant practical experience of laboratory skills. The candidate must value teamwork and collaboration, and have good administrative and interpersonal skills. This position will require working together with the postdoctoral research associate.

Further particulars for the role and information about the Department www.vet.cam.ac.uk

Informal enquiries should be directed to Julie Ingham email ji217@cam.ac.uk

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Interviews will be held: 11 May 2023

Please quote reference PP36021 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.