working with animals jobs

Two posts, ref: 91169 & 91070

Full-time, Fixed-term appointment for 18 months (possibility of extension subject to funding)

Based in Liverpool with occasional international travel

We are seeking two Postdoctoral Research Associates to join the Filariasis Research Group at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. The successful candidates will contribute to a diverse portfolio of preclinical translational research projects focused on human and veterinary filarial diseases.

The post holders will take a lead role in designing and conducting experimental filarial infections, drug-dosing and immunological loss-of-function studies, alongside complementary ex vivo and in vitro assays. They will generate and analyse a range of immunological, molecular, and microscopy-based readouts to assess the efficacy and safety of novel therapeutic candidates for filarial diseases affecting both humans and companion animals.

Human and veterinary filariasis remains a significant global health and welfare challenge. New curative therapies are essential to accelerate elimination efforts for lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis, and to improve prevention and treatment options for heartworm in animals. In addition, innovative approaches are required to address the chronic immunopathologies associated with filarial infection and aid adherence to current elimination chemotherapy strategies.

Key responsibilities include:

• Experimental in vivo infections
• Biochemical, imaging, immunological and molecular assessments
• Production and supply of filarial larvae
• in vitro culture of filariae and mammalian cells

The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work as an integral member of a multi-disciplinary, multi-national research team. You will have well-developed research skills with the ability to effectively present research findings in oral and written format. You will also demonstrate:

• PhD in infection biology
• BSc in Biology related degree
• Current or recent Home Office Animal Licensee (gerbil and/or mouse)
• Extensive laboratory training in experimental in vivo biology
• In vitro culture of mammalian cells and/or helminth parasites
• Experience of experimental infections
• Experience of In vitro drug dosing studies
• Quantitative PCR experience

For a full list of essential and desirable criteria please refer to the job description and person specification

In return we offer:

• 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, and additional Christmas closure days
• Generous occupational pension schemes
• Government backed “cycle to work” scheme
• Affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre
• Plus, a host of additional family friendly policies

Expected date of interviews: 15th - 17th December 2025

Application Process:

Please Note: Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may close our vacancies earlier than the advertised deadline. Therefore, we strongly recommend applying as early as possible to ensure your application is considered.

Inclusion is central to our values at LSTM

We seek to attract and recruit people who reflect the diversity across our communities, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, nationality, faith or belief, social background, age and disability. LSTM selects candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience.

We welcome conversations about flexible working and applications from those returning to employment after a break from their careers.

About LSTM

Founded in 1898 and the oldest of its kind in the world, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in tropical diseases. Through the creation of effective links with governments, NGOs, private organisations and global institutions and by responding to the health needs of communities, LSTM aims to promote improved health, particularly for people of the less developed/resource poorest countries in the tropics and sub-tropics.

LSTM actively promotes Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding Policies