Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Fellow, Infection Biology

at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

🏢 About London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) is globally recognized for its leadership in public health research and education, with a mission-driven focus on improving health equity worldwide. Its unique position combines academic excellence with direct translation of research into policy and practice, offering researchers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful global health impact. Working at LSHTM provides access to cutting-edge facilities and a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment at the forefront of infectious disease research.

About This Role

This Research Fellow position focuses on investigating D-arabinanases in mycobacterial physiology and pathogenicity, involving biochemical, molecular, genetic, and cell biological analyses. The role is impactful as it contributes to understanding mycobacterial interactions with bacteria and host cells, potentially advancing knowledge in infection biology and tuberculosis research. You'll work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to meet research deadlines on this specialized project.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day involves conducting laboratory experiments focused on biochemical analysis of D-arabinanases, possibly including enzyme purification, activity assays, or genetic manipulation of mycobacterial strains. You'll analyze experimental data, collaborate with team members on multidisciplinary aspects of the project, and contribute to research documentation while planning next steps to advance understanding of mycobacterial physiology and pathogenicity.

🎯 Who London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Is Looking For

  • Has strong hands-on experience in biochemical and molecular analysis techniques relevant to mycobacterial or bacterial research
  • Demonstrates expertise in genetic manipulation and cell biological methods applicable to infection biology studies
  • Possesses experience working collaboratively in multidisciplinary research teams while maintaining independent project management
  • Shows specific interest or background in mycobacterial physiology, D-arabinanases, or related enzymatic studies

📝 Tips for Applying to London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

1

Explicitly highlight any mycobacterial research experience in your CV, as this is central to the project focus

2

Detail specific biochemical and molecular techniques you've mastered that are directly applicable to D-arabinanase analysis

3

Mention any experience with multidisciplinary collaboration, particularly in infection biology or related fields

4

Research and reference LSHTM's specific work in mycobacterial research or related infection biology projects

5

Quantify your research achievements where possible (publications, techniques mastered, project outcomes)

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience with biochemical and molecular analysis techniques relevant to mycobacterial research', 'Examples of successful independent research management within collaborative team environments', 'Understanding of D-arabinanases or related enzymatic systems in bacterial physiology', "Alignment with LSHTM's mission of translating research into global health impact"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • LSHTM's specific research groups working on mycobacterial infections or tuberculosis
  • Recent publications from LSHTM researchers on bacterial physiology or infection biology
  • LSHTM's partnerships and translation of research into policy/practice in global health
  • The specific department's current projects and research priorities related to this position

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Detailed discussion of your hands-on experience with biochemical analysis of bacterial enzymes
2 Your approach to investigating mycobacterial interactions with host cells or other bacteria
3 Experience working in multidisciplinary research teams and meeting project deadlines
4 Knowledge of current research on D-arabinanases or mycobacterial physiology
5 How your research interests align with LSHTM's public health mission and translation focus
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting generic applications without addressing the specific focus on D-arabinanases and mycobacterial research
  • Failing to demonstrate hands-on laboratory experience with the mentioned techniques (biochemical, molecular, genetic analysis)
  • Not showing understanding of how this basic research connects to LSHTM's public health mission and translational goals

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine!