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- Tasks: Join our team to analyse data on the gut-brain axis and its effects on thermotolerance.
- Company: Lancaster University is a leading institution in biomedical and life sciences research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment, flexible hours, and opportunities for travel and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting interdisciplinary project with global partners and make a real impact in science.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree required; experience in omics pipelines and proficiency in R and Python essential.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and promote a healthy work-life balance for all employees.
The predicted salary is between 27500 - 40000 £ per year.
The Benedetto lab is looking for an enthusiastic bioinformatician or computer scientist to join a wider collaborative project, studying how the gut-brain axis mediates gut bacterium effects on host thermotolerance in ectotherms. The position is funded by the Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) for 33 months. The Benedetto lab is part of the Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences at Lancaster University, UK, where we apply integrated physiology approaches to understand how animal health is achieved through the interplay of organ systems and the gut microbiota, using C. elegans as a reductive model.
The current project aims to identify conserved and metaorganism-specific gut-brain-axis (GBA) mechanisms of thermotolerance in fish, bees and worms. It combines field sampling across three countries (Iceland, France and the UK) with laboratory experiments, involving microbial culturomics, metagenomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, metabolic modelling, and advanced live microscopy approaches.
You will primarily implement data analysis pipelines for metagenomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and metabolic modelling, and analyse the omics datasets acquired during the project. You will also contribute complementary bioimage and proteomics analyses as needed.
Throughout the project you will work collaboratively with research associates and PhD students in partner institutions in the UK, France, Germany, and the USA. The project is highly collaborative and interdisciplinary in nature, providing an excellent opportunity for an ambitious early-career scientist to establish a strong research network and carve a path to independence.
You are required to hold a postgraduate degree in a relevant field with a publication track-record commensurate to your experience, have demonstrable experience in developing, implementing and using omics pipelines, be proficient in R and Python programming and in statistical analyses. Candidates should also be willing to undergo training and acquire any additional necessary skills, which may involve travels to collaborating institutions (USA, Germany, UK), as required by the project. We are looking for a highly motivated, organised and collaborative individual with strong interpersonal skills.
Our lab and the Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences provide a friendly research environment that strongly supports the individual needs of each employee and actively promotes a healthy work-life balance. The Faculty is committed to family-friendly and flexible working policies and has held a Silver Athena SWAN award since 2014 in recognition of its good employment practice undertaken to address gender equality in higher education and research. We welcome applications from people in all diversity groups.
Informal enquiries are welcome. Please contact Dr Alexandre Benedetto (a.benedetto@lancaster.ac.uk) with a CV for more information.
Research Technician - 0505-25 employer: Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Conferences and Events+ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Technician - 0505-25
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific methodologies mentioned in the job description, such as metagenomics and transcriptomics. Being able to discuss these techniques confidently during your interview will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Reach out to current or former employees of the Benedetto lab or the Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences. They can provide valuable insights into the lab culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with R and Python programming in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of projects where you've implemented omics pipelines, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your collaborative experiences in previous roles. Since this position involves working with international partners, showcasing your ability to work effectively in diverse teams will be a significant advantage during the selection process.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Technician - 0505-25
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in bioinformatics, programming (especially R and Python), and any work with omics pipelines. Emphasise your publication track record and collaborative projects.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the research project and how your skills align with the requirements. Mention your willingness to learn and adapt, as well as your ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your technical skills related to data analysis, statistical analyses, and any experience with microbial culturomics or advanced microscopy techniques. This will demonstrate your capability to contribute effectively to the project.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a research setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
✨Show Your Passion for Research
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the research being conducted at the Benedetto lab. Discuss how the gut-brain axis and its implications excite you, and relate it to your previous experiences or studies.
✨Demonstrate Technical Proficiency
Be prepared to discuss your experience with R and Python programming, as well as your familiarity with omics pipelines. Bring examples of past projects where you successfully implemented these skills.
✨Highlight Collaborative Experience
Since the project is highly collaborative, share specific instances where you've worked in teams, especially in interdisciplinary settings. Emphasise your interpersonal skills and how you contribute to a positive team dynamic.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and the lab's future directions. This shows your genuine interest and helps you understand how you can fit into their research goals.
