Research Scientist (RNAi Epigenetics) in Norwich

We are looking for an enthusiastic Research Scientist to join the Buscaino Laboratory at the Quadram Institute. This Wellcome Trust–funded project investigates how RNA interference (RNAi) regulates Candida albicans adaptation to host environments and contributes to the commensal‑to‑pathogen transition.

This position is highly collaborative, and the post holder will contribute to a multidisciplinary effort to uncover how RNAi coordinates chromatin structure, genome stability and transcriptional responses during adaptation. They will support other lab members, troubleshooting and collaborative data interpretation. The post holder will contribute to scientific publications, prepare conference presentations and share findings at national and international meetings.

The post holder will be based at the Quadram Institute and will work closely with Prof Alessia Buscaino and members of her research group, as well as collaborating with two key external partners: Prof Kevin Foster (University of Oxford) and Prof Ana Traven (Monash University).

The successful candidate will lead experimental work integrating (epi)genomics and genetics approaches to determine how RNAi shapes genome organisation and interacts with other epigenetic processes to facilitate fungal adaptation. This will include conducting chromatin‑profiling experiments such as ChIP‑seq and ATAC‑seq, performing Hi‑C analysis in wild‑type and RNAi‑defective strains under different host‑relevant gut conditions, and investigating how RNAi contributes to reversible, non‑DNA‑encoded regulation of gene expression. They will also employ molecular genetics to generate and analyse RNAi mutants, and will work alongside the team’s bioinformatician to design optimal genomics and epigenomics strategies.

This role offers an excellent opportunity for a motivated experimental scientist to work at the interface of epigenetics, fungal biology and host–microbe interactions, within a vibrant and interdisciplinary research environment at the Quadram Institute.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in Genetics, Molecular Biology or related disciplines. The post holder will have a strong understanding of RNAi biology coupled with an excellent understanding of epigenetics. Practical experience with genetic manipulation, including generating mutants and conducting functional assays is essential.

This is a full-time post for a contract of 24 months. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and welcome applications from all sectors of society. The Institute values of Respect, Innovation, Collaboration and Excellence are at the heart of all we do, and we expect all employees to share and display these values. To support our commitment, we have a range of family, faith and diversity friendly working arrangements to help all staff achieve excellence in their area of work.

As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy.

The closing date for applications will be 12th February 2026.