At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct innovative research on insect egg micropyles and sperm movement using advanced experimental techniques.
- Company: University of Lincoln, collaborating with Tulane University, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time position, and opportunity to work with an international team.
- Other info: Dynamic lab environment with excellent collaboration and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge project that combines biophysics, bioengineering, and mathematical biology.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in relevant fields, with hands-on experience in microfabrication and live-cell imaging.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 38784 £ per year.
School of Natural Sciences
Location: Lincoln
Salary: From £38,784 per annum
Please note, this post is fixed-term for 36 months and full-time at 1 FTE.
Closing Date: Thursday 10 September 2026
Interview Date: Thursday 17 September 2026
Reference: CHS310A
This is an externally-funded PDRA position supporting the Leverhulme project “Biophysical and morphological coevolution of egg micropyles and sperm in insects”. You will work closely with an international team of researchers across multiple disciplines at the University of Lincoln, UK, in collaboration with Tulane University, USA.
Insect eggs are incredibly intricate and complex structures which are poorly studied when compared to sperm. To fertilise insect eggs, sperm must pass through a tiny pore called a micropyle, which is connected to a channel leading inside the egg. Through our previous work on insect egg and sperm, we have shown that sperm and egg micropyles co-evolve. The aim of this project is to quantify and explore the form and function of insect egg micropyles across insects.
The post you would hold sits at the experimental heart of this: fabricating nano-scale physical analogues of egg surfaces and micropylar pores, and imaging live sperm as they move across and through them. These experiments are complemented by evolutionary analysis and mathematical modelling carried out with the wider team. This is a laboratory-based post and we are looking above all for a strong experimentalist.
You will have a PhD (or close to completion) in experimental biophysics, bioengineering, applied physics or a closely allied discipline, with demonstrable hands-on experience of micro- and nanofabrication and of quantitative live-cell imaging. You will fabricate microfluidic devices and develop live imaging protocols to visualise sperm movement over engineered surfaces and through pores. You will also contribute to computational modelling of sperm movement alongside our collaborator Dr Adnan Morshed (Tulane University, USA) and write and run analysis code in R and/or Python.
You will have excellent communication skills with the ability to talk to different audiences, as you will be collaborating with a team of researchers across multiple disciplines both in the UK and overseas.
Further details: Job Description and Person Specification
You can find out more about working at Lincoln, and everything that we have to offer, at: https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/jobopportunities/
We strive for a diverse workforce with the very best employees and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. The University encourages applications from underrepresented groups inclusive of Black, Asian and other minoritised/marginalised ethnic groups, all gender identities and expressions from the LGBTQIA+ community, candidates with a disability, and those that practise different faiths and beliefs, to enhance our One Community where we strive to be kind, patient, and supportive of each other.
Please note: If you think you may require a visa to work in the UK, please refer to UK Visas and Immigration or UK Visas – Information for Prospective Staff before embarking upon an application, to ensure that you understand the requirements for sponsorship. You may be eligible to work in the UK via other alternative visa routes such as the Global Talent Visa or by having Settlement / ILR; please refer to the UK Visas pages above for further details.
Post-doctoral Research Associate in Biophysics, Bioengineering or Mathematical Biology in Lincoln employer: Lincoln Institute
The Lincoln Institute is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, staff enjoy generous annual leave, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional growth within the vibrant university community in Lincoln. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive culture that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Post-doctoral Research Associate in Biophysics, Bioengineering or Mathematical Biology in Lincoln
✨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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If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Lincoln Institute. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
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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Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Lincoln Institute!
We think you need these skills to ace Post-doctoral Research Associate in Biophysics, Bioengineering or Mathematical Biology in Lincoln
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 Lincoln Institute 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 Lincoln Institute.
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 Lincoln Institute 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 Lincoln Institute
✨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 Lincoln Institute. 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 Lincoln Institute'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 Lincoln Institute. This shows your passion for the industry!
