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- Tasks: Investigate bacterial genome evolution in family members using cutting-edge metagenomics.
- Company: Quadram Institute Bioscience, a leader in biological research and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, mentorship opportunities, and a vibrant research community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on understanding the human microbiome and its evolution.
- Qualifications: PhD in biology, bioinformatics, or related field; experience in scientific research required.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team at one of Europe's top research parks with excellent career growth.
The predicted salary is between 37500 - 43350 £ per year.
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Scientist to join the laboratory of Prof Falk Hildebrand at Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB), Norwich, UK.
Background: The human microbiome is shared among family members in all life stages. To investigate potential mechanisms and the impact on bacterial evolution, we created the PEARL-AGE cohort in Norwich, collecting samples from multi-generational families longitudinally, as well as biodata.
The role: The project will investigate how bacterial genomes evolve in closely related family members. Specifically, adaptation to individuals through genetic mutation and DNA modification will be investigated, relying on 3rd generation DNA sequencing from hundreds of faecal metagenomes. The project will investigate the following questions:
- Which gut microbes are most prone to colonise family members, and what are likely genetic determinants?
- How can some bacteria persist for decades in the same host?
- Are there unique genetic adaptations to each host or each host family?
The environment: The Hildebrand group uses metagenomics to research the diversity, interactions, and evolution of microbial communities using custom software solutions. The group is jointly based at the Quadram Institute Bioscience and Earlham Institute, developing software such as LotuS3 and MATAFILER and pushing the limits of high-resolution metagenomics.
The ideal candidate: The ideal applicant holds a PhD (or equivalent) in biology, bioinformatics, computer science or a related discipline, with a background and/or interest in at least one of the following subjects:
- Microbiomes & biodiversity
- Metagenomics & patient cohorts
- Ecology & evolution
Experience in conducting scientific experiments independently, writing papers, and scientific presentations is required. Skills in statistics, programming, working with human cohorts, comparative genome analysis, determining genetic adaptation, analysing DNA modifications (methylation), and grant writing are beneficial. Specialised skills will be taught and developed through mentorship and collaborations.
Additional information: Salary on appointment will be within the range £37,500 to £43,350 per annum depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time post for a contract of 24 months.
For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our website or contact the Human Resources team quoting reference.
This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sectors of society. The Institute supports equality of opportunity within the workplace and expects all employees to share and display these values.
As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy.
About the Quadram Institute: The Quadram Institute is located on the Norwich Research Park, one of Europe’s largest single-site concentrations of research in food, genomics, and health. The Park hosts four BBSRC institutes, around 17,000 students, 3,000 researchers and clinicians, and more than 115 companies. Its researchers are internationally recognized, with 10 scientists ranked among the top 1% of the world’s most highly cited, including Prof Hildebrand. Norwich is regularly ranked among the top UK cities to live in, known for its historic city centre and vibrant food and coffee culture.
Interviews are planned for week commencing 1 June 2026.
Research Scientist (Metagenomics) in Norwich employer: EURAXESS Czech Republic
Contact Detail:
EURAXESS Czech Republic Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Scientist (Metagenomics) in Norwich
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in the field! Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meetups related to metagenomics. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job or can introduce you to someone at Quadram Institute.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Talk about your PhD work, any cool projects you've done, and how they relate to the research at Quadram. Be confident!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Before reaching out or applying, do your homework on the Quadram Institute and Prof Hildebrand's work. Tailor your conversations and applications to show how your background fits perfectly with their research goals. It’ll make you stand out!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Quadram Institute.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Scientist (Metagenomics) in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Scientist role. Highlight your relevant experience in metagenomics and any specific projects that align with the work at Quadram Institute. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your skills! Whether it’s programming, statistics, or conducting experiments, let us know what you bring to the table. Use examples from your past work to illustrate your expertise.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your passion for biological sciences shines through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at EURAXESS Czech Republic
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest research in metagenomics and microbiomes. Familiarise yourself with the PEARL-AGE cohort and the specific questions the project aims to address. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your genuine interest and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience with scientific experiments, programming, and data analysis. Highlight any relevant projects or papers you've worked on, especially those that relate to genetic adaptations or metagenomic analysis. This is your chance to shine!
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the lab's current projects, the software they use, or their approach to mentorship. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don't forget to let your personality shine through. The Quadram Institute values diversity and collaboration, so being authentic can help you connect with the interviewers and demonstrate how you'd fit into their team.