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- Tasks: Conduct bioinformatic research and support wet-lab sample preparation for innovative tree breeding.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham's School of Biosciences, a leader in research and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Full-time role until March 2028 with excellent career development prospects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable forestry with cutting-edge speed breeding technologies.
- Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field and expertise in bioinformatics required.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 36636 £ per year.
The School of Biosciences at the University of Birmingham is seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to contribute to the project titled “Speed Breeding Technologies for UK Broadleaved Trees,” funded by the Centre for Forest Protection (CFP) and supported by Defra. The position is offered on a full-time, fixed-term basis until March 2028 and will be based at the University of Birmingham’s Edgbaston campus. The successful candidate will work within the research groups led by Dr. Andrew Plackett and Dr. Graeme Kettles.
The role involves undertaking bioinformatic research and supporting wet-lab preparation of samples for next-generation sequencing as part of the broader project investigating innovative speed breeding technologies for trees. The research fellow will play an integral role in delivering project objectives, collaborating with interdisciplinary partners across institutions, and contributing to project management and reporting requirements.
Responsibilities- Undertaking experimental work under supervision to collect research data.
- Managing time effectively to meet project milestones.
- Analyzing and interpreting research data.
- Developing research objectives and proposals for individual or collaborative projects.
- Contributing to the design of follow-on experiments aligned with project goals.
- Contributing to funding proposals.
- Disseminating research findings through publications and seminars.
- Participating in collaborative meetings with project partners and quarterly review meetings with Defra.
Applicants must hold a PhD in a relevant discipline or possess equivalent professional qualifications and research experience appropriate to the role. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research and contribute to collaborative scientific projects.
Required expertise/skills- Expertise in bioinformatics and computational analysis of biological data.
- Experience or willingness to support wet-lab work including sample preparation and RNA extraction.
- Strong ability to analyze, interpret, and present complex scientific data.
- Experience in developing research objectives and contributing to research proposals.
- Proven ability to disseminate research findings through academic publications and presentations.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the capacity to work effectively within multidisciplinary research teams.
Full-time starting salary is normally in the range of £36,636 to £46,049 per annum, with potential progression once in post to £48,822. Due to limited project funding, the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7 at £36,636 per annum.
Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) – School of Biosciences (Grade 7) employer: RFCSR
Contact Detail:
RFCSR Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) – School of Biosciences (Grade 7)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the biosciences field, attend relevant seminars, and engage with researchers on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your bioinformatics knowledge and being ready to discuss your past research experiences. We recommend practising common interview questions and even doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio of your research projects, publications, and any presentations you've given. This will help us see your contributions and how you can add value to our team at the University of Birmingham.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) – School of Biosciences (Grade 7)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Fellow. Highlight your bioinformatics expertise and any relevant experience in wet-lab work. We want to see how your skills align with the project on speed breeding technologies!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this research area and how you can contribute to the project. Don’t forget to mention your collaborative spirit, as teamwork is key for us.
Showcase Your Research Experience: In your application, be sure to showcase your previous research experience, especially any independent projects or publications. We love seeing how you've contributed to scientific discussions and advancements in your field!
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 into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the project, especially the 'Speed Breeding Technologies for UK Broadleaved Trees'. Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in bioinformatics and how they relate to the project. This will show your genuine interest and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working with interdisciplinary partners, be ready to discuss your past experiences in collaborative projects. Highlight specific examples where you successfully worked within a team, contributed to project management, or communicated effectively with diverse stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your bioinformatics skills and wet-lab experience. Brush up on your knowledge of RNA extraction and next-generation sequencing techniques. Being able to articulate your technical skills confidently will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Dissemination
Talk about your experience in publishing research findings and presenting at seminars. Share any specific instances where your work has made an impact. This will illustrate your commitment to not just conducting research but also sharing it with the wider community.