PhD Microbiology jobs

About us

In our atomic force microscopy (AFM) laboratory, headed by Prof. Bart Hoogenboom, we have pioneered AFM methods and their application, from atomic-resolution imaging in liquid, via double-helix resolution imaging of DNA and high-speed imaging of protein assembly on membranes, to more recently some of the highest resolution images ever of living bacteria. Based on this microscopy expertise, we have initiated various programmes aiming to understand fundamental barriers that protect bacteria against antibiotics. We have a highly diverse group where lab members’ various backgrounds and expertise complement each other to together do great science on topics of biomedical importance. This is further enhanced by tight, cross-disciplinary collaborations with multiple other labs with complementary expertise.

The London Centre for Nanotechnology (LCN) is an interdisciplinary enterprise between University College London, King’s College London and Imperial College London. In bringing together world-class infrastructure and leading nanotechnology research activities, the Centre aims to attain the critical mass to compete with the best facilities abroad. The LCN has strong relationships with the broader nanotechnology and commercial communities. As the world’s only such facility to be located in the heart of a metropolis, the LCN has superb access to corporate, investment and industrial partners. It is at the forefront of training in nanotechnology and has a strong media presence aimed at educating the public and bringing transparency to this emerging science.

About the role

The postholder will develop and apply atomic force microscopy (AFM), in conjunction with other methods, to identify the architecture of the outer membrane of pathogenic bacteria, to define the principles of its assembly and growth, and to discover how antibiotics (can) overcome the outer membrane to kill the bacteria.

This will build on recent advances in the lab in discovering bacterial cell envelope architectures and their disruption by antibiotics, e.g., https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2112237118 and https://doi.org/10.1038/s41564-025-02133-1.

Embedded in a larger, Wellcome-Trust funded research programme with the University of Oxford, this role represents an excellent opportunity for the postholder to develop research at the interface of biophysics, biochemistry and microbiology, in an environment where own initiative is strongly encouraged.

About you

The successful candidates will have a PhD in a relevant area of Life or Physical Sciences (or at least have submitted their thesis by the start date of the post) with an outstanding track record of research and publications. Experience in advanced microscopy is essential, and specific experience in in-liquid atomic force microscopy and/or microbiology would be most beneficial.

They must have demonstrated ability for creative, original independent research. The person must be adept at multi-tasking and organizing their work to meet deadlines. They must have a proven track record of working in multi-disciplinary teams

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:

• 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
• Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• Immigration loan • Relocation scheme for certain posts
• On-Site nursery
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted medical insurance

Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Bronze award, in recognition of our long-term commitment and 'beacon' status in advancing gender equality.

You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/