Project Description
One of the biggest outstanding problems in biology is how we can predict evolution. This interdisciplinary project will combine the tools and techniques of molecular and synthetic biology with biophysics to study how the existing molecular mechanisms in bacterial cells determine evolution. Understanding this relationship will allow us to predict the effects of mutations, and hence improve our ability to predict evolution.
This is particularly important when it comes to understanding and predicting the evolution of antibiotic resistance – one of the most important examples of how evolution affects human lives today, already causing over 50,000 deaths per year in the EU alone, in addition to dramatically extending hospital stays and increasing health care costs. In order to tackle this problem, we need to develop predictive approaches that will help us not only extend the usefulness of existing antibiotics, but also inform the development of longer-lasting novel drugs.
The aim of this project is to improve our ability to predict multi-drug resistance evolution by understanding how the existing molecular mechanisms in the cell determine evolution. This project will involve constructing synthetic gene regulatory networks and experimentally probing them by introducing mutations into promoters and transcription factors that control the expression of multi-drug resistance pump, AcrAB-TolC. We aim to understand how biophysical mechanisms determine the effects of mutations in transcription factors and promoters, and hence how they drive resistance evolution. This project will dramatically improve our ability to predict antibiotic resistance evolution.
The specific aims of this project are flexible and can develop in many directions, reflecting postdoc’s interests and expertise. An ideal candidate will have a collaborative spirit and independent drive, and will be encouraged to develop their own ideas and approaches.
Potential applicants are encouraged to contact Mato prior to applying.
Lagator Lab
This post will be in the lab of Mato Lagator, in the School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health. Mato is a Wellcome Trust Royal Society Sir Henry Dale Fellow (Assistant Professor level) who is, broadly speaking, interested in the relationship between molecular mechanisms and evolution. The lab uses interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches to provide novel insights into the evolution of gene regulation and antibiotic resistance in bacteria. The lab currently has two postdocs and 5 PhD students, and fosters a collaborative environment.
This position would provide an opportunity to work at the cutting-edge of evolutionary biology with a young and energetic PI who values independence and intellectual curiosity.
University of Manchester Research Environment
The integrated structure of our Faculty enables a truly translational approach to biology, medicine and health - from pure discovery science through to clinical application and patient care. It also encourages collaborative working, enabling staff to deliver innovative, world-leading research that has a very real and positive impact on people’s lives, as well as high-quality education and training to over 11,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Manchester has in recent years become one of the largest centers for microbial evolution and resistance research. The postdoc will be imbedded within several research networks at Manchester, in particular the Manchester Anti-Microbial Resistance network and the Microbial Evolution and Ecology Research Manchester (MERMan).
What you will get in return:
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.
Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Mato Lagator
Email: mato.lagator@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
