At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop generative AI methods for biological design and closed-loop discovery.
- Company: Earlham Institute, a leader in AI for Biology research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, access to cutting-edge AI resources, and collaborative research environment.
- Other info: Full-time role with potential for contract extension and visa support.
- Why this job: Shape the future of AI in biology and publish impactful research.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and strong Python programming skills.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 46500 £ per year.
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist (SC6) or Senior Postdoctoral Research Scientist (SC5) to join Professor Ke Li's AI for Biology Group in the Research Faculty of the Earlham Institute, based in Norwich, UK.
The AI for Biology Group will be newly established at the Earlham Institute (EI), while building on Professor Ke Li's established and well-funded research programme in fundamental AI, AI co-scientists, and applications in complex scientific domains such as RNA sequence-function modelling, structure prediction, and inverse design. At EI, the group will develop an ambitious Generative Digital Biology (GDB) programme, developing multimodal, cross-organism and experimentally grounded AI systems that can learn from biological data, support hypothesis generation, guide experimental design and accelerate discovery across EI's research programmes and technology platforms.
The successful candidate will have access to substantial AI compute, including in-house state-of-the-art H200 GPU servers, alongside further capacity through the Norwich Data Centre and access to national-scale AI compute through Isambard-AI. This provides a strong environment for frontier AI development and evaluation. Collaboration with the Earlham Biofoundry provides routes for model-guided experimental design and, where appropriate, closed-loop self-driving laboratory workflows supported by established lab automation.
We are seeking an ambitious researcher to develop generative AI methods for biological design and closed-loop discovery within a new AI for Biology Group at EI. The successful candidate will create novel AI algorithms that generate and refine biological designs, prioritise experiments, and learn from experimental feedback. Building on Professor Ke Li's established research programme, the role focuses on developing new AI methods for scientific discovery rather than simply applying existing approaches. The post offers extensive collaboration across the Institute, supporting AI-guided design-build-test-learn workflows, biological discovery, and the development of open algorithms, benchmarks, and reproducible research.
This is an exciting opportunity to help shape a frontier AI for Biology programme, publish high-impact research, and contribute to future funding applications. Appointment will be made at SC6 (Postdoctoral Research Scientist) or SC5 (Senior Postdoctoral Research Scientist), according to the candidate's experience and evidence against the published criteria.
The successful candidate will have a PhD (awarded or expected within 6 months) in Computer Science, AI, Machine Learning, Computational Biology, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Engineering, or a related quantitative discipline. They will have excellent Python programming skills and practical experience with leading AI frameworks such as PyTorch, JAX or TensorFlow, together with strong expertise in modern AI methods and depth in one or more of generative modelling, reinforcement learning, Bayesian optimisation, active learning, uncertainty quantification, causal modelling, or optimisation in complex search spaces.
Candidates should demonstrate experience developing original AI methods for scientific discovery, design, optimisation or decision making not solely applying existing tools, together with evidence of high-quality research outputs commensurate with career stage. Experience at the interface of AI and biology, including biological foundation models, sequence design, genomics, single-cell data, synthetic biology or drug discovery, would be advantageous.
For appointment at SC5, candidates will additionally be expected to demonstrate experience in closed-loop or active experimental design, or an equivalent sequential decision-making setting with real-world feedback; a strong track record of independent or semi-independent research; the ability to develop and deliver a research direction with limited supervision; clear evidence of leading high-quality outputs; and the ability to coordinate collaborations, support junior researchers, and contribute substantively to publications and grant applications.
Salary on appointment will be within the range £39,000 to £46,500 per annum depending on qualifications and experience for the SC6 level post, and £47,450 to £52,560 per annum for candidates who meet the SC5 level criteria. This is a full-time post for a contract of 36 months, with possible extension.
This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. The closing date for applications will be 20 August 2026.
(Senior) Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Generative AI and Closed-loop Discovery in Norwich employer: Euraxess
The University of Southampton is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of environmental science. As a Research Fellow, you will have access to cutting-edge resources and the opportunity to work alongside leading experts, enhancing your professional growth while contributing to impactful research on ocean biogeochemistry. Located in a dynamic academic environment, the university prioritises employee development and provides a supportive atmosphere for meaningful contributions to scientific advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land (Senior) Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Generative AI and Closed-loop Discovery in Norwich
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
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Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
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We think you need these skills to ace (Senior) Postdoctoral Research Scientist – Generative AI and Closed-loop Discovery in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Euraxess that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Euraxess.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Euraxess does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Euraxess
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Euraxess. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Euraxess's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Euraxess. This shows your passion for the industry!
