Viral infections trigger a profound cellular response leading to the induction of hundreds of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) that are aimed at limiting the infection. Many ISGs specifically target the infecting virus, while others coordinate the cellular response, and a dysregulated response is pathogenic; thus, its tight control is critical. Inherited ISG15-deficiency was recently identified in patients with autoinflammatory interferonopathies and typically these patients exhibited elevated ISG expression in the absence of infection. Hence, the interferon-inducible, ubiquitin-like protein ISG15 was identified as a new regulator of the antiviral response.

We wish to recruit a postdoctoral research fellow to study the molecular biology underpinning the ISG15-dependent regulation of the antiviral response. The successful applicant will ideally have expertise (industrial or academic) in molecular and cellular biology, virology and have an understanding of the antiviral response. Experience in proteomics would be advantageous, but not essential.

The post, which is available immediately, will be for up to 22 months (in the first instance) and is funded by the Academy of Medical Sciences. Candidates must hold a PhD or be about to submit a PhD thesis. You will join an enthusiastic, supportive and friendly lab working on various aspects of virus-host interactions. Furthermore, the BSRC is host to several virology groups of international standing, providing a stimulating research environment.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr David Hughes (e-mail: djh25@st-andrews.ac.uk).
Hughes lab website: https://synergy.st-andrews.ac.uk/virushost/.

The University is committed to equality for all, demonstrated through our working on diversity awards (ECU Athena SWAN/Race Charters; Carer Positive; LGBT Charter; and Stonewall).  More details can be found at http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/diversityawards/.

Closing Date: 20 April 2018

Please quote ref: AR2046HM        

Further Particulars: AR2046HM FPs.doc

School of Biology
Salary: £32,548 per annum
Start Date: As soon as possible
Fixed Term for up to 22 months