PDRA in Antimicrobial Discovery and Mechanism of Action

Medicine, Pharmacy & Biosciences

Location

Aston University Main Campus

Salary

£41,064 to £46,049 per annum

Grade

Grade 08

Contract Type

Fixed Term (18 months)

Basis

Part Time

Closing Date

23.59 hours BST on Monday 08 June 2026

Interview Date

Monday 22 June 2026

Reference

0745-26

Release Date

Monday 25 May 2026

Aston University’s School of Biosciences is seeking to appoint a Post‑Doctoral Research Associate to work on a Comvita‑funded project focused on assay‑informed antimicrobial discovery. The project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to translational research aimed at developing new approaches to combat clinically relevant infections, in collaboration with academic and industry partners.

The successful candidate will support the design, development and optimisation of experimental assay systems underpinning antimicrobial discovery. This will include establishing robust, quantitative assay workflows, analysing complex datasets and refining experimental strategies to coordinate project outputs. While the role includes microbiological work, this is primarily in support of assay development rather than as a standalone focus. The postholder will also contribute reflectively to project design, problem‑solving and dissemination of findings through publications and presentations.

You will hold a PhD (or equivalent) in biochemistry, microbiology, molecular biology or a related discipline, with postdoctoral experience in an assay‑informed or antimicrobial research environment. You should have strong experience in assay development and optimisation, alongside excellent experimental design, data analysis and troubleshooting skills. Experience of antimicrobial discovery approaches is essential. Experience working with mycobacteria (BSL2/BSL2+) is required, and a willingness to work with complex biological materials, including porcine lung tissue, is expected.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a collaborative and supportive research environment, contributing to innovative antimicrobial research with clear translational potential.

What we offer

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family friendly policies.
• On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

This role is likely to qualify for endorsement under the Endorsed Funder route of the Global Talent visa. This visa is for talented or promising individuals in academia or research in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, or humanities.

See the Home Office guidance: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent

The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications

While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at ***email_hidden***