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- Tasks: Investigate how fermented plant-based foods influence gut health and develop machine learning tools.
- Company: Quadram Institute Bioscience, a leader in food and microbiome research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge team to shape the future of sustainable nutrition and health.
- Qualifications: PhD in biology, bioinformatics, or related field; experience in microbiology and data analysis.
- Other info: Work with international experts and attend workshops across Europe.
The predicted salary is between 37500 - 43350 £ per year.
Food, Microbiome & Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Scientist position in the Hildebrand group at the Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB), Norwich, UK.
Background: Microbial fermentation of plant-based foods is increasingly used to recreate the taste, texture, and nutritional qualities of meat, while improving environmental sustainability. Optimizing the production of plant-based foods and ensuring consumer acceptance remain important challenges, further complicated by new and diverse fermentation approaches.
The role: In the FlavourFerm consortium, partners are developing novel fermented plant-based foods. This research position will investigate how these foods influence the human gut microbiome and offer potential benefits to host health. Taste and texture of these foods will be predicted from microbial fermentation consortia. Specifically, microbes will be identified that affect fermentation outcomes. Building on previous work from the host group, we will develop machine learning tools to model microbial communities and their impact. In the longer term, this research will support the development of human-centric fermented foods that are safe, appealing, and environmentally sustainable.
The environment: The successful applicant will work within the Hildebrand and Traka groups, integrated in the H2020 international FlavourFerm consortium. Prof Hildebrand studies the diversity, interactions, and evolution of microbial communities using high‑resolution metagenomics and custom software tools. The group is jointly based at QIB and the Earlham Institute developing widely used bioinformatic tools. Dr Traka leads the UK national resource Food & Nutrition National Bioscience Research Infrastructure, focused on automated food categorization using AI. FlavourFerm combines microbiologists, machine learning and food scientists, to develop the next generation of healthy and sustainable nutrition. The project requires close collaborations across Europe; attendance and participation in workshops and consortium meetings is required.
The ideal candidate: holds a PhD (or equivalent) in biology, bioinformatics, computer science or a related discipline, being experienced in bioinformatics, (meta)genomic data, and microbiology. Knowledge in AI, machine learning, microbial pathogens, microbiology of fermentation, comparative genomics and analysing microbial communities will be of benefit. Specialized skills will be taught and developed through mentorship and collaborations.
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 until 30 April 2028. Closing date for applications will be 17 May 2026. Interviews are planned for week commencing 1st June 2026.
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. The Institute is an Equality Confident employer.
Research Scientist (Data Science) in Norwich employer: Findauniversity Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Findauniversity Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Scientist (Data Science) in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of microbiology and data science. Attend relevant events or workshops, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your work in bioinformatics and machine learning. This could be anything from projects you've completed during your PhD to personal experiments. A strong portfolio can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of microbial fermentation and AI applications in food science. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the goals of the FlavourFerm consortium. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new roles as they come up.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Scientist (Data Science) in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Scientist role. Highlight your experience in bioinformatics, machine learning, and microbiology. We want to see how your skills align with our focus on plant-based foods and gut health!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the intersection of food, microbiome, and health. We love seeing enthusiasm for our mission at StudySmarter, so let that passion come through!
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you've worked on any projects related to microbial fermentation or AI in food science, make sure to mention them. We’re keen to see how your past experiences can contribute to our innovative research at the Quadram Institute.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Findauniversity Ltd.
✨Know Your Microbial Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of microbial fermentation and its impact on plant-based foods. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past research that relate to the role, especially how you've used bioinformatics or machine learning in your work.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this position involves working closely with various teams across Europe, highlight any previous collaborative projects you've been part of. Share how you effectively communicated and contributed to team goals, as this will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a consortium environment.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to (meta)genomic data analysis and AI applications in microbiology. Brush up on relevant tools and methodologies, and be prepared to explain your thought process when tackling complex problems in your field.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the FlavourFerm project or the specific challenges the team is facing. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the position aligns with your career goals.