Research Scientist – RNAi factors and mechanism in Candida albicans

Applications Close: 10 February 2026

Salary: Salary on appointment will be within the range £37,500 to £45,350 per annum depending on qualifications and experience

Contract Length: 24 months

We are looking for an enthusiastic Research Scientist to join the Buscaino Lab at the Quadram Institute.

This Wellcome Trust–funded project aims to identify novel components of the RNA interference (RNAi) pathway in Candida albicans using a biochemical approach. The post holder will be based at the Quadram Institute and will work closely with Prof Alessia Buscaino and members of her research group, as well as collaborating with two key external partners: Prof Kevin Foster (University of Oxford) and Prof Ana Traven (Monash University).

Background

The successful candidate will lead experimental work to identify and characterise novel C. albicans RNAi components using biochemical approaches. This will include applying advanced biochemical and molecular biology techniques for multi‑protein complex purification, functional analysis and molecular characterisation.

The role

The role will also involve conducting genetic experiments to support the functional investigation of RNAi components and integrating results within their biological and mechanistic context. Expertise in protein‑complex purification and strong experience in molecular biology are essential.

This position is highly collaborative, and the post holder will work closely with both internal team members and external collaborators to drive a multidisciplinary effort to uncover new RNAi mechanisms in fungal pathogens. The post holder will also contribute to scientific publications, prepare conference presentations, and present findings at national and international meetings.

This role offers an excellent opportunity for a motivated experimental scientist to work at the interface of fungal biology, RNAi mechanisms and biochemistry, within a vibrant and interdisciplinary research environment at the Quadram Institute.

The ideal candidate

The successful candidate will have a PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or related discipline. They will have excellent understanding of protein biochemistry as well as expertise in protein‑complex purification.

Demonstrated experience in isolating and purifying multi-protein complexes using biochemical methods in addition to strong experience in molecular biology are essential.

Additional information

Salary on appointment will be within the range £37,500 to £45,350 per annum depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time post for a contract of 24 months.

For further information and details of how to apply can be found on our HR website or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1005022.

This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.

We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and welcome applications from all sectors of society. The Institute values of Respect, Innovation, Collaboration and Excellence are at the heart of all we do, and we expect all employees to share and display these values. To support our commitment, we have a range of family, faith and diversity friendly working arrangements to help all staff achieve excellence in their area of work.

As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy.

The closing date for applications will be 10 th February 2026.

The Quadram Institute Bioscience is a registered charity (No. 1058499) and is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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