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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to advance research in microbiome ecology through fieldwork and lab experiments.
- Company: The University of Manchester, a leading institution in science and engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and potential for hybrid working arrangements.
- Why this job: Make meaningful contributions to groundbreaking ecological microbiome science with top researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD or submitted thesis in microbial ecology, bioinformatics, or related fields required.
- Other info: 30-month contract with excellent opportunities for collaboration and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 33700 - 40000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic interdisciplinary research project as a Research Associate in Microbiome Ecology, based within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at The University of Manchester. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of microbial community assembly, stability, and function. This work is part of a landmark Pushing the Frontiers grant funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and is deeply embedded in collaborative research that spans field sampling, laboratory experiments, mathematical modelling, and bioinformatic analysis.
The post-holder will work alongside leading investigators from the MERMan research cluster — a vibrant network of more than 100 researchers focused on microbial ecology and evolution — and will benefit from access to cutting‑edge laboratory and computational facilities. This fixed‑term position (30‑month contract) is ideal for researchers ready to make meaningful contributions to ecological microbiome science. The role offers a supportive academic environment committed to fostering equality, diversity, and work‑life balance, with potential for hybrid working arrangements where appropriate.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants should hold a PhD (or have submitted for the award) in a relevant discipline, such as microbial ecology, bioinformatics, computational biology, ecology, or a related field.
- A strong academic record with experience or demonstrable interest in microbiome research is expected.
Required Expertise, Skills
- Lead mathematical modelling and bioinformatic analyses of microbiome data.
- Collaborate in experimental design and interpretation of results across field and lab work.
- Work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
- Strong communication skills for contributing to scientific discussions and outputs.
- Familiarity with computational tools and approaches relevant to ecological data analysis.
Salary Details
Salary for this role is £37,694 – £39,906 per annum, dependent on relevant experience.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 1 March 2026.
Research Associate – Research Associate in Microbiome Ecology in Manchester employer: RFCSR
Contact Detail:
RFCSR Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate – Research Associate in Microbiome Ecology in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current researchers in microbiome ecology or related fields. Attend seminars, workshops, or conferences where you can meet potential colleagues and mentors. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous research, especially any work related to microbial ecology or bioinformatics. This can be a great conversation starter during interviews and helps us see your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your research experiences and how they relate to the role. The more comfortable you are discussing your work, the better you'll shine in the real deal!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate – Research Associate in Microbiome Ecology in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in microbiome research, mathematical modelling, and bioinformatics. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about microbiome ecology and how you can contribute to our project. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention any specific computational tools or approaches you’re familiar with. We’re keen on candidates who can hit the ground running, so let us know how your skills can benefit our team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Know Your Microbiome
Make sure you brush up on the latest research in microbiome ecology. Familiarise yourself with key concepts, recent studies, and methodologies that are relevant to the role. This will not only show your passion for the field but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with mathematical modelling and bioinformatics. Be ready to provide specific examples of projects you've worked on, the tools you used, and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your technical expertise and how it aligns with the requirements of the position.
✨Collaboration is Key
Since this role involves working within a multidisciplinary team, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others. Highlight your communication skills and how you've contributed to team projects, as this will be crucial for the collaborative nature of the research at The University of Manchester.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the research project, the MERMan cluster, and the potential for hybrid working arrangements. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the environment is the right fit for you.
