Research Assistant (Environmental Microbiology)

Research Assistant (Environmental Microbiology)

Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU)

Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University

Position: Research Assistant (Environmental Microbiology)

MORU is a well-established and highly productive research collaboration between the Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, the University of Oxford, and the Wellcome Trust (UK). The unit has been conducting research for 40 years and is recognized as a world leader in tropical medicine research. Our main research interests are pharmacology, epidemiology, diagnosis, pathophysiology and treatment of infectious diseases, which cause illness and deaths throughout this region.

We are excited to recruit a Research Assistant to join our team on the DeEPH programme (Decoding the interplay between Environment, Pathogen, and Host in melioidosis), supported by Wellcome Trust, starting 1 June 2026.

Melioidosis is a severe bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, with high mortality in the Lower Mekong Basin. Disease progression - from exposure and infection to recovery - is shaped by complex interactions between bacterial, host, and environmental factors. In this programme, we will longitudinally collect and profile bacterial genomes from environmental sources and patients, alongside host blood omics from patients and healthy individuals in endemic communities. This will identify bacterial and host markers of disease progression and inform public health interventions (e.g. treatment timing and adherence) to improve outcomes. The project is highly collaborative across Southeast Asia and the UK, and we'd love you to be part of it.

Tasks

• Process water samples from piped systems and environmental reservoirs in northeast Thailand
• Co-develop protocols (including plate-sweep methods) to isolate and profile environmental bacteria
• Generate data to map environmental risk and inform public health interventions

This role sits at the interface of laboratory microbiology, field sampling, and public health impact.

Essential Qualifications

• BSc or MSc in Biological Sciences (or related field) with strong laboratory experience
• Excellent attention to detail and accurate record-keeping
• Strong organisational skills
• Excellent communication skills (fluency in English and Thai or Lao required)
• Ability to work effectively in a team
• Openness to giving and receiving constructive feedback
• A collaborative, friendly approach to working in multicultural teams

Suitability & Career Development

This role is ideal for early-career Thai or Lao scientists - whether you're planning to pursue further training abroad or are returning home after studying overseas. Members of our team have gone on to PhD and postdoctoral training at institutions such as University of Cambridge and the Wellcome Sanger Institute, with strong records of fellowship success and publications. We take mentoring seriously and will support your development toward your next career step.

Terms & Conditions

The post will be based in Ubon (60%) and will rotate to Bangkok (40%) but we are flexible.

The website of MORU is

The salary will be based on MORU scales and will depend on experience and qualifications.

Salary Package

• 13th month salary
• Health and life insurance
• 20 days of annual leave

How to Apply

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and warmly welcome applications from all backgrounds. Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter explaining your interest and suitability to Dr Claire Chewapreecha; Head of Melioidosis Genomics and Ms Raiwin Mothong.

MORU's Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

MORU is committed to creating an inclusive culture and a respectful environment, and values diversity and promoting equity for all its members. MORU does not tolerate any form of harassment or victimisation and expects all members, visitors and contractors to treat each other with respect, courtesy and consideration. Successful candidates are expected to adhere to these standards and principles.