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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to optimise microbiome testing protocols and develop bioinformatics workflows.
- Company: King's College London, a leading institution in life sciences and medicine.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in reproductive health research while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: BSc in Microbiology or Biomedical Sciences; lab experience in microbiology and sequencing required.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career development opportunities in a collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 39076 - 43909 £ per year.
About Us
The School of Life Course & Population Sciences is one of six Schools that make up the Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King’s College London. The School unites over 300 experts in women and children’s health, nutritional sciences, population health and the molecular genetics of human disease. Our research links the causes of common health problems to life’s landmark stages, treating life, disease and healthcare as a continuum. We are interdisciplinary by nature, and this innovative approach works: 91 per cent of our research submitted to the Subjects Allied to Medicine (Pharmacy, Nutritional Sciences and Women's Health cluster) for REF was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. We use this expertise to teach the next generation of health professionals and research scientists. Based across Guy’s, St Thomas’ and Waterloo campuses, King’s Denmark Hill, our academic programme of teaching, research and clinical practice is embedded across five Departments.
We are looking for a skilled biomedical scientist with a strong interest in the human microbiome, clinical test development and have proven relevant microbiology/sequencing and bioinformatics skills. An interest in reproduction and pregnancy is desirable. The post holder will be responsible for optimising protocols for rapid testing of the reproductive tract microbiome and developing a bioinformatics workflow for data generated using an Oxford Nanopore Technology platform. The post holder will be supported by experienced bioinformatician members of the Clinical Diagnostics Development Team based at Guy’s Campus. They will work with existing human samples and alongside members of Professor Tribe’s and Dr Rocio Martinez Nunez’s labs, The Hub for Applied Bioinformatics (Dr Alessandra Vigilante) and the clinical preterm birth team based at St Thomas’ Hospital.
The postholder will need to be methodological, organised and efficient with proven experience of working within a relevant lab setting and generation of results at a conference or via a peer-reviewed publication. They will also have excellent communication skills and the ability to work with multiple teams seamlessly. This is a full-time post (35 hours per week) and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 31 May 2027. The postholder will be expected to be on site as this is a lab-based role.
About You
To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:
- BSc in Microbiology, Biomedical Sciences, or equivalent (Upper second class or higher) - Grade 5 Research Assistant only
- PhD (or pending results) in relevant subject to microbiology and/or reproductive health - Grade 6 Research Associate only
- Proven lab experience in microbiology and sequencing
- Experience of optimising research methods/protocols
- Experience of using R for bioinformatic analyses.
- Evidence of research publications (e.g. conference abstract or paper)
- Demonstrable skills in written and spoken English that enables effective communication
- Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary team
- Ability to work on own initiative and to work to and meet firm deadlines
- Experience in developing protocols for future implementation into a clinical environment
- Knowledge of GCP and HTA regulations
We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming. We embrace diversity and want everyone to feel that they belong and are connected to others in our community. We are committed to working with our staff and unions on these and other issues, to continue to support our people and to develop a diverse and inclusive culture at King's.
We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible. To find out how our managers will review your application, please take a look at our ‘How we Recruit’ pages. Interviews are due to be held by mid-January 2026, with a start date by March 2026. This post is subject to Occupational Health clearances.
Grade and Salary: Grade 5: £39,076 - £43,909 per annum; Grade 6: £45,031 per annum, including London Weighting Allowance
Research Assistant / Associate in Microbiome and Reproduction employer: KINGS COLLEGE LONDON
Contact Detail:
KINGS COLLEGE LONDON Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant / Associate in Microbiome and Reproduction
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the microbiome and reproductive health fields. Attend relevant conferences or seminars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential colleagues at King’s College London.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of microbiology and bioinformatics. Be ready to discuss your lab experience and any research publications you’ve contributed to. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but a passionate researcher!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves working with multiple teams, being able to convey your ideas clearly is key. Try mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable talking about your experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at King’s College London. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant / Associate in Microbiome and Reproduction
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant skills and experiences in microbiology and bioinformatics. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your lab experience!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to detail how you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description. Be specific and give examples of your achievements in research and teamwork.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects your ability to convey complex ideas clearly. Whether it's through your CV or supporting statement, let us see your written English skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at KINGS COLLEGE LONDON
✨Know Your Microbiome Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest research in microbiology and reproduction. Be ready to discuss your lab experience and any relevant projects you've worked on. This shows you're not just a candidate, but someone genuinely interested in the field.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be working with multiple teams, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively. Prepare examples of how you've collaborated in the past and how you can convey complex information clearly.
✨Be Methodical and Organised
The role requires a methodical approach, so come prepared to discuss how you manage your time and tasks in a lab setting. Share specific instances where your organisational skills led to successful outcomes in your research.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about bioinformatics and the use of R for analyses. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to explain your thought process when developing protocols or optimising methods. This will show that you're not only qualified but also proactive in your approach.