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- Tasks: Develop and enhance the OrthoFinder method for comparative genomics research.
- Company: Join the prestigious Kelly lab at the University of Oxford, a leader in biological science.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, diverse work environment, and opportunities for impactful research.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that shapes our understanding of evolution and health.
- Qualifications: PhD-level scientists or software engineers with data analysis and programming skills are encouraged to apply.
- Other info: This is a full-time, fixed-term position for 3 years, closing on 4th July 2025.
The predicted salary is between 38674 - 46913 £ per year.
About the role
Comparative genomics, and specifically our ability to identify which genes are related in different species, has revolutionized our understanding of the natural world. It enables us to reconstruct the tree-of-life on Earth, it allows us to reveal how biological function has evolved and is distributed on this tree, and it is the foundation that enables us to use model organisms to study health and disease. Accordingly, almost all of contemporary biological science research is critically dependent on our ability to identify which genes are related in different species. The Kelly lab has developed the OrthoFinder comparative genomic methods. OrthoFinder has become widely-used in comparative genomics research, it powers many popular databases of online genomic information, and has enabled and been cited by over 6,000 studies in the last five years. The Kelly lab is looking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on the OrthoFinder project.
About you
The successful applicant will be responsible for developing and implementing additional functionality in the OrthoFinder method. Specifically, the successful applicant will focus on improving the usability and accessibility of the method to enhance user ability to perform analyses in comparative genomics, enable new analyses, and gain new evolutionary insights from data generated using OrthoFinder. The successful applicant should have prior experience in data analysis, data visualization, and preferably the development of interactive web-applications through approaches such as Bokeh, Shiny, Taipy, Streamlit etc. The successful applicant should be motivated and excited by the opportunity to help advance the capabilities of comparative genomic research community, and to use these tools to make new discoveries.
How to apply
The Kelly lab welcomes individuals with diverse career backgrounds – PhD-level scientists in any discipline with expertise in data and programming, or software engineers outside of academia looking to change career to biological research are particularly welcome to apply.
Where Covid-19 has resulted in substantial disruption to your work or research outputs, please explain this by providing an additional paragraph in your supporting statement.
The University of Oxford is committed to equality and valuing diversity. All applicants will be judged on merit, according to the selection criteria.
This post is full-time and fixed term for 3 years.
The role closes on Friday 4th July 2025 at 12 noon and interviews will be scheduled for mid to late July.
Contact Person :
HR Team
Vacancy ID :
180173
Contact Phone :
Closing Date & Time :
04-Jul-2025 12:00
Pay Scale :
RESEARCH GRADE 7
Contact Email :
recruitment@biology.ox.ac.uk
Salary (£) :
£38,674 – £46,913 per annum #J-18808-Ljbffr
Postdoctoral Research Associate employer: University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
University of Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the OrthoFinder method and its applications in comparative genomics. Understanding its functionalities will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the project.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase any relevant experience you have with data analysis and visualisation tools. If you've worked with Bokeh, Shiny, or similar frameworks, be prepared to discuss specific projects where you used these skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former members of the Kelly lab or those involved in comparative genomics. Engaging with them can provide insights into the lab's culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you can enhance the usability and accessibility of OrthoFinder. Think about innovative ideas or features that could improve user experience, as this will show your proactive approach to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in data analysis, data visualisation, and any programming skills you possess. Emphasise your familiarity with tools like Bokeh, Shiny, or Streamlit, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for comparative genomics and the OrthoFinder project. Discuss how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the role and mention any specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your capabilities.
Address Covid-19 Impacts: If applicable, include a paragraph in your supporting statement explaining how Covid-19 has affected your work or research outputs. This shows transparency and helps the selection committee understand your circumstances.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with data analysis and visualisation tools. Highlight any projects where you've developed interactive web applications, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Understand OrthoFinder
Familiarise yourself with the OrthoFinder method and its applications in comparative genomics. Being able to discuss its significance and potential improvements will demonstrate your genuine interest in the project.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Research
Express your enthusiasm for advancing comparative genomic research. Share examples of how you’ve contributed to similar projects or how you envision using your skills to make new discoveries.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions about teamwork and problem-solving. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to work collaboratively, especially in diverse teams, as the lab values varied career backgrounds.
