Queen’s University Belfast is seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow to join the ‘EnviroFlu’ work package within the all-Ireland ‘ALLIES-Z Path’ research project. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a 4-year, 3-million Euro strategic cross-border initiative aimed at tracking zoonotic viral threats.
Research Fellow Opportunity: Join the ALLIES-Z Path Team at Queen’s University Belfast, UK
Job Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Job Title | Research Fellow (Environmental Molecular Virology) |
| Job Reference | 26/113470 |
| Category/Type | Research |
| Location | School of Biological Sciences / Institute for Global Food Security, Queen’s University Belfast |
| Salary | £42,972 – £48,339 per annum |
| Contract Duration | 29 months |
| Application Deadline | 03/08/2026 |
Research Area
The project focuses on Environmental Molecular Virology, specifically developing and applying novel environmental monitoring approaches to track avian influenza virus ecology. This role is part of a larger interdisciplinary network (ALLIES-Z-Path) involving collaborators across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Job Description
The successful candidate will join the group of Dr. Connor Bamford, working alongside Prof. John McGrath and Dr. Deirdre Gilpin. Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and applying environmental monitoring approaches to understand and track avian influenza virus ecology.
- Expanding wastewater-based epidemiology and environmental sampling techniques to an all-island scale.
- Conducting field sampling and advanced molecular analysis.
- Contributing to the Northern Ireland Avian Influenza Forum (NIAIF) and collaborating with international partners.
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Essential: A PhD (or near completion) in Molecular Virology/Microbiology, Molecular Ecology, or a related field.
- Essential: Significant, recent experience in molecular virology/microbiology, specifically in techniques like nucleic acid extraction and RT-qPCR.
- Essential: Solid understanding of relevant Health and Safety procedures and COSHH regulations.
- Desired: Strong interest in interdisciplinary research and field-based work.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should review the full Candidate Information to ensure they address all essential and desirable criteria in their application. You can submit your application via the Apply online portal.
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