Research Assistant/Associate

Salary: Research Assistant - £33,951 to £35,608 per annum

Research Associate - £36,636 to £37,694 per annum

Newcastle University is a great place to work, with excellent benefits . We have a generous holiday package; plus the opportunity to buy more, great pension schemes and a number of health and wellbeing initiatives to support you.

Closing Date: 30 April 2026

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Assistant/Associate to join our interdisciplinary team tackling critical challenges in antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This exciting role is part of an MRC-funded project investigating the epidemic potential of key human gastrointestinal pathogens across the urban interface – encompassing environmental, animal, food, and human sources within major metropolitan areas in Southeast Asia (SEA), focusing on Manila (Philippines) and Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam). This position will be based at the School of Engineering at Newcastle University, focusing on developing models to predict AMR/transmission for epidemic preparedness and to identify biomarkers for diagnostic and therapy.

As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of research role profiles . These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.

For further enquires please contact Anh Phan ( [email protected] )

Key Accountabilities

• Develop models to predict AMR/transmission and to identify biomarkers for diagnostics and therapy
• Conduct comprehensive bioinformatic analysis utilising established methodologies and tools (e.g. R, Python, MATLAB and other relevant bioinformatics software packages)
• Collaborate closely with project partners (Philippines, Vietnam and University of West London, UK) to analyse results, gather relevant data for modelling, and ensure accurate data collection
• Analyse data, interpret results and compile findings into detailed reports for regular project team meetings and wider dissemination
• Coordinate all aspects of assigned research projects, ensuring timely delivery of milestones and adherence to established protocols and timelines. This includes contributing to project planning and risk assessment
• Design, organise and facilitate workshops and training courses to disseminate research findings and best practices to the wider team
• Prepare high-quality manuscripts suitable for submission to leading peer-reviewed research journals
• Maintain consistent, proactive communication with project partners to ensure all specifications and deliverables are met, tracked, documented, and proactively addressed any challenges or deviations from specifications
• Contribute to the efficient operation of the laboratory, aligning activities with the Principal Investigator’s direction and priorities

The Person

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Solid knowledge and practical experience in developing models (e.g., statistical modelling, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning)
• Experience in computational biology and bioinformatic analysis
• Proven ability to write detailed, technically accurate reports on complex research topics, adhering to established scientific writing standards
• Capacity to undertake independent research work and effectively collaborate with team members
• Ability to assess complex problems, analyse data critically, and propose innovative solutions
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to plan and organise work effectively and generate comprehensive reports

Desirable

• Experience in advanced computational work involves protein structure prediction
• Publications in high impact factor journals
• Knowledge and experience in AMR, Artificial Intelligence in health and food systems
• Good laboratory skills encompassing cell culture, molecular biology, metagenomic sequencing technologies
• Experience in handling microbial pathogens

Attributes and Behaviour

• Excellent (written and verbal) communication and teamwork skills
• Detail-oriented and highly organised
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Strong problem-solving abilities
• To be courteous with the Supervisor and all other members of the team

Qualifications

• A degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Microbiology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Data Science, Biological Sciences or related subjects
• PhD (or near to completion for appointment at Research Assistant) in Computational Biology, Microbiology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Data Science, Biological Sciences or related subjects for appointment at Research Associate

Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.

We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.

At Newcastle University we hold a Gold Athena Swan award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality. We also hold a Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC. We are a Disability Confident employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme.

In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe.

Requisition ID: 29135