Postdoc in virus-host interactions
Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher to investigate
how herpesviruses manipulate host-cell focal adhesions during
infection. The herpesvirus family comprises many highly-prevalent
human and animal pathogens that can cause severe disease, especially
in immunocompromised individuals. The successful applicant will join
a multidisciplinary team that aims to define how herpesviruses
modulate the host-cell environment to ensure efficient virus assembly
and dissemination. Our recent work has identified that herpes simplex
virus localises to focal adhesions of infected cells (doi:
10.1128/JVI.02196-16), and the successful applicant will lead our
efforts to determine the functional consequences of this interaction for cell morphology and virus
dissemination. Together, our work aims to provide the basic underpinning science that will support
the next generation of medical therapies, including new antivirals and improved vaccines.
The post will be held at the Department of Pathology in the laboratory of Dr Stephen Graham, located
on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, and the research will benefit from a strong established
collaboration with the laboratory of Dr Colin Crump. Candidates should have a PhD, or expect to obtain
one shortly, and have a strong background in virology, cell biology or biochemistry. Experience with
immunofluorescence microscopy plus one or more of the following is essential: (i) live-cell
fluorescence microscopy; (ii) purification/enrichment of focal adhesions for biochemical studies; (iii)
generation of recombinant viruses and their characterisation in cell-based infection assays. Prior
experience investigating herpesviruses and/or focal adhesions would be advantageous. The
laboratory employs a wide range of techniques and support will be available for the successful
candidate to expand their skills.
The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance. Apply online at
http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/13442/
Applications close Monday, 22 May 2017.