Research Technician

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Detail information about job Research Technician. Terms and conditions vacancy

A vacancy exists for a full-time Research Technician (grade UE06) within the Division of Infection & Immunity at The Roslin Institute. The project aims to establish murine models of mild malarial anaemia that mimic the clinical features in “asymptomatic” malaria infection. With these, we determine the contribution of infection-induced haemolytic anaemia to induction of heme-oxygenase I, neutrophil dysfunction, and the risk of Salmonella bactaeremia. The post is supported by funding from the MRC for 13 months.

The post-holder will join a new group at the Roslin Institute that aims to understand if asymptomatic malaria leads to persistent haemolysis, neutrophil dysfunction, and results in a decreased ability to control secondary bacterial infections. While the incidence of concurrent malaria and Salmonella infections in children is well documented, the underlying mechanisms that account for this increased risk are just beginning to be identified. In a recent landmark study, our group found that malaria-induced haemolysis impairs neutrophil killing of Salmonella. Specifically, haemolysis results in the liberation of heme and activates the enzyme heme-oxygenase I (HO-1). In malaria-infected mice, heme and HO-1 induction releases immature neutrophils into the circulation, which are deficient in their killing of Salmonella. In malaria endemic areas, the vast majority of malaria infections are either asymptomatic or subpatent. In addition, low-density malaria infections are particularly associated with bacteraemia. Using established models of persistent haemolysis in malaria-infected mice, we will determine whether low-level parasite infection, which causes mild anaemia, results in neutrophil dysfunction and increases the risk to NTS bacteraemia. In addition, we will determine the level and/or duration of anaemia that leads to neutrophil dysfunction. This post will involve the evaluation of established animal models of malaria; characterizing anaemia, HO-1 induction and neutrophil function in various strains of Plasmodium species and mice.

The successful applicant will have a B.Sc degree in a relevant discipline and knowledge of routine methods in microbiology, immunology and molecular biology. S/he will ideally have a proven record of productive research in a related area. Experience of work with rodents under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and a holder of a Home Office ASPeL licence (PIL) is essential.

This post is available from 01/11/2017 on a fixed term basis for 13 months

Vacancy Ref: 040908

Closing Date: 11 September 2017

For further particulars and to submit an application, visit the University of Edinburgh’s website via the apply button below.