At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on evolutionary ecology and host-pathogen interactions.
- Company: Join the University of Exeter, a top-ranked institution for Ecology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible start dates, and exceptional career development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate with leading researchers and contribute to innovative projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in evolutionary biology while enjoying the stunning Cornwall campus.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in evolutionary ecology or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 43482 £ per year.
About The Role
This NERC funded full‑time post is available for 42 months (3.5 years), to start between 1st October 2026 and 30 September 2030 (some flexibility to start date). The post will be based at the University of Exeter’s Centre for Ecology & Conservation on our Penryn Campus in Cornwall. The starting salary will be from £36,636 on Grade E for the Postdoctoral Research Associate level and from £43,482 on Grade F for the Postdoctoral Research Fellow level, depending on qualifications, skills and experience.
The Role
We wish to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Associate / Fellow for a NERC‑funded project that will study the evolutionary ecology of senescence and its role in shaping host‑pathogen interactions, using data from a remarkable 50‑year field study of European badgers (Meles meles) and bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in the UK. Our work will leverage extraordinary longitudinal individual‑based data sets covering life‑histories, bTB status, movement biology and immunology, coupled with whole genome sequences (medium‑coverage WGS data) for over 2,500 of the individuals monitored.
The successful candidate will combine concepts and analytical approaches from evolutionary ecology and quantitative genetics to investigate:
- The evolutionary mechanisms that maintain senescence in natural populations
- The inter‑generational effects of senescence (parental age effects) and their evolution
- The effects of senescence on bTB susceptibility, progression and transmission, and the mechanisms that underpin these effects
The Research Associate / Fellow will join a vibrant interdisciplinary team of five postdoctoral researchers, research faculty from the Universities of Exeter, Sheffield and Edinburgh, and project partners from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), DEFRA and the Office for Environmental Protection.
About You
We seek candidates with a PhD (or nearing completion) or equivalent qualification/experience in evolutionary ecology, quantitative genetics or a related field. Candidates should have specialist knowledge of the discipline, research methods and techniques that enable them to work within established research programmes. They should possess excellent quantitative skills, a strong interest in eco‑evolutionary questions in general, and life‑history evolution and senescence in particular. Applicants are expected to develop research objectives, perform data analysis, write up results for publication, give presentations at conferences and other events, assist with supervising the work of others, and contribute to the process of securing additional funding. They should be team players capable of working independently, with excellent organisational and time‑management skills.
Postdoctoral Research Associate
The successful applicant will possess a PhD (or nearing completion) or equivalent qualification/experience and sufficient specialist knowledge to work within established research programmes. They will develop research objectives, perform data analysis, write up results for publication, give presentations at conferences and other events, assist with supervising the work of others, and contribute to securing additional funding. They are a team player capable of working independently and have excellent organisational and time‑management skills.
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
The successful applicant will possess a PhD or equivalent qualification/experience and broad knowledge in the discipline. They will develop research programmes and methodologies, have excellent quantitative skills, and a strong interest in eco‑evolutionary questions, particularly life‑history evolution and senescence. They will develop research objectives, perform data analysis, write up results for publication, give presentations at conferences and other events, supervise the work of others, and contribute to securing additional funding. They are a team player capable of working independently, with excellent organisational and time‑management skills, and can act as a team leader as required.
What we can offer you
You will join the Centre for Ecology & Conservation at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus in Cornwall; the largest group of whole‑organism biologists in the UK and ranked 2nd in the world for Ecology (2025 Shanghai University Rankings), with exceptional strengths in evolutionary biology, behavioural ecology and animal behaviour. A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Cornwall. Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and work creatively across disciplines to produce internationally exciting research. Support teams that understand the university‑wide research and teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly. An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics, providing specialist support for external engagement and development. The Exeter Academic initiative supporting high‑performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career. Sector‑leading benefits around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay) and a fertility treatment policy.
Further Information
Please contact Prof Andy Young, email a.j.young@exeter.ac.uk
Postdoctoral Research Associate / Fellow in Evolutionary Ecology in Exeter employer: Eurobioimaging
The University of Exeter offers an exceptional work environment for Postdoctoral Research Associates and Fellows in Evolutionary Ecology, situated on the picturesque Penryn Campus in Cornwall. With access to world-class research facilities and a vibrant interdisciplinary team, employees benefit from generous support for professional development, sector-leading family leave policies, and the freedom to explore innovative research ideas in a collaborative atmosphere. This role not only promises meaningful contributions to ecological research but also provides a unique opportunity to thrive in one of the UK's top-ranked institutions for ecology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate / Fellow in Evolutionary Ecology in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your academic contacts, attend conferences, and engage with researchers in your field. You never know who might have a lead on a postdoc position or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your research and the latest trends in evolutionary ecology. Be ready to discuss your work passionately and how it aligns with the projects at the University of Exeter.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio of your research, publications, and presentations. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your expertise in quantitative genetics and eco-evolutionary questions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate / Fellow in Evolutionary Ecology in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in evolutionary ecology and quantitative genetics. We want to see how your skills align with the specific research objectives of the project.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to develop research objectives and perform data analysis. Mention any previous work that involved writing up results for publication or presenting at conferences, as this is key for us.
Demonstrate Team Spirit:We’re looking for team players! Highlight any collaborative projects you’ve been part of and your ability to work independently. This will show us that you can thrive in our vibrant interdisciplinary team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Eurobioimaging
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of your research area, especially evolutionary ecology and quantitative genetics. Be prepared to discuss your previous work and how it relates to the project on senescence and host-pathogen interactions.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since the role involves data analysis, be ready to demonstrate your quantitative skills. Bring examples of your analytical approaches or software you’ve used in past projects, and be prepared to discuss how you would apply these to the new research.
✨Prepare for Team Dynamics
This position requires collaboration with a diverse team. Think about your experiences working in teams and be ready to share examples of how you’ve contributed to group projects, supervised others, or led initiatives.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have some thoughtful questions ready. Inquire about the interdisciplinary aspects of the project, potential challenges, or future funding opportunities. This shows your genuine interest and engagement with the role.
