At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in quantitative, systems, and engineering biology at a top university.
- Company: Join the University of Warwick, a world-leading research institution with a vibrant academic community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, flexible working, and excellent professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusivity and excellence in STEM.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research while shaping the future of biological sciences.
- Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field and a passion for interdisciplinary research and teaching.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
About the Role
This is a permanent full-time academic appointment post.
About the group/team
The School of Life Sciences (SLS) at the University of Warwick wishes to appoint an excellent and ambitious principal investigator working in the broad area of quantitative, systems and engineering biology (QSEB). Particular areas of interest include, but are not limited to, Physics of Life (PoL), Engineering Biology, Bioelectricity, Cellular Metabolisms, and Biomanufacturing. We encourage applications from researchers combining experimental and data-driven approaches, such as single-cell technologies, microfluidics and analytical chemistry, with mathematical, computational and AI models. Individuals whose research has strong potential for industrial collaborations and who are developing work with translatable and societal impact are particularly encouraged.
Your research at SLS will be supported by high-quality administrative and technical teams and cutting-edge research infrastructure and facilities. Our excellent research facilities include genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, liquid-handling robotic platforms, high-performance computing, flow cytometry, advanced confocal microscopy, light and electron microscopy facilities, bioinformatics growth facilities for experimental plants and animals and CL2 and CL3 laboratories.
We and the wider University of Warwick environment offer substantial opportunities for professional development including regular opportunities to attend international conferences.
About You
The successful candidate will be expected to have an original and interdisciplinary research programme that investigates biological phenomena through the prism of fundamental physical, chemical, mathematical or engineering principles, and by combining experiments and theory. The Quantitative, Systems and Engineering Biology (QSEB) cluster is one of the core research clusters at SLS. QSEB-associated faculty carry out world-leading research to understand the fundamental principles of life in single cells and cell collectives and engineering their dynamic behaviours. Our research has applications to cellular physiology, the dynamics of endogenous and synthetic circuits, gene expression, biophysics, microbial interactions, development, plant biology, cancer and systems neuroscience. You will be expected to be an active member of this research cluster.
Researchers at QSEB also work closely with colleagues from other departments (Warwick Medical School, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics and Engineering) as well as cross-departmental centres such as Bio-electrical Engineering Innovation Hub (BEE Hub), Warwick AMR Interdisciplinary Centre (WAMIC), and the Systems Biology and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Research (SBIDER). You will be positioned to attract PhD students from the large BBSRC (MIBTP)- MRC- and NERC (CENTA)-funded Doctoral Training Programs at Warwick.
In addition to developing your independent research programme, you will be expected to contribute to and develop QSEB-related undergraduate and postgraduate teaching programmes in areas that reflect your research expertise and interests. Teaching areas of our strategic interest include Engineering Biology and Computational Biology. Applicants must evidence a strong commitment to education and training as well as an interest in enhancing their own practice.
About the Department
For further information about the School of Life Sciences please see our website. We believe that collegiality, openness, inclusivity and diversity are essential for an excellent research and teaching environment. Our workplace ethic has enabled us to gain the Athena SWAN Silver award. We are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applications from all groups with protected characteristics traditionally under-represented in STEM fields.
For those eligible, the University offers relocation and Immigration Support Scheme packages to assist with costs of relocating and any associated visa applications and HIS (health) surcharge fees. You will also be provided with an agreed start-up package for your research.
About the University
We are a world-leading research-intensive university founded in 1965. We are ranked 74th in the world and 9th in the UK. Additionally, 92% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent.
How to Apply
CLOSING DEADLINE: Sunday 31 May 2026 at 11:55pm (UK Time)
To apply, please click APPLY below and submit your application by the closing deadline. You will be asked to include a CV and cover letter. Within these documents, please:
- Outline your employment and education history (including your most recent employment).
- Outline the reasons for your interest in this position.
- Demonstrate how you meet the requirements of the role with clear reference to each of the essential and desirable criteria in the Job Description.
Please ensure your covering letter consists of no more than three pages outlining how you meet the job description and associated criteria, as well as your future research objectives and aspirations. Please include details on how you will attract funding to develop your research portfolio, describe what makes your research distinctive, and outline how you would develop collaborations across departments. You can also include here any career breaks you may have taken (parental or long-term sick leave, caring responsibilities, part-time work, secondments, volunteering or time spent in different sectors) or any periods where you were unable or restricted to work because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interview Date: 18th/19th June 2026
Start Date: To be confirmed
Applications must be submitted by the closing deadline. You will not be able to submit an application form even if you opened it before the stated deadline. Only applications submitted through our Careers Portal will be considered.
What we Offer
We provide a comprehensive range of benefits, including:
- An attractive pension scheme.
- 30 days holiday plus University Christmas closure.
- Generous parental/adoption leave policy.
- Onsite childcare facilities.
- Excellent learning and development opportunities.
- We recognise the importance of a healthy work/life balance and offer access to flexible working arrangements.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
To find out more about our commitments to equality, diversity, and inclusion, please see our website.
Associate Professor or Assistant Professor in Quantitative, Systems and Engineering Biology employer: The University of Warwick
Contact Detail:
The University of Warwick Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Professor or Assistant Professor in Quantitative, Systems and Engineering Biology
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in your field! Attend conferences, workshops, or even casual meet-ups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Research
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your research and its impact. Be ready to discuss how your work aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their team.
✨Be Ready for Informal Chats
Don’t shy away from reaching out for informal queries, like those mentioned in the job description. A quick email to Professor Gifford or Professor Bending could give you insights and show your enthusiasm!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Make sure to apply through our Careers Portal. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our awesome team at Warwick!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Professor or Assistant Professor in Quantitative, Systems and Engineering Biology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your relevant experience in quantitative, systems, and engineering biology, and don’t forget to showcase any interdisciplinary research you've done. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Clearly outline why you're interested in this position and how your research aligns with our goals at the School of Life Sciences. Be specific about your future aspirations and how you plan to attract funding.
Address the Criteria: When you’re writing your application, make sure to address each of the essential and desirable criteria listed in the job description. This helps us see how you meet our expectations and makes it easier for the hiring panel to shortlist you.
Submit Through Our Portal: Don’t forget to submit your application through our Careers Portal by the deadline! Only applications submitted this way will be considered, so make sure you get everything in on time. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Warwick
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your research in detail, especially how it aligns with the Quantitative, Systems and Engineering Biology cluster. Be prepared to explain your methodologies and the potential impact of your work on both academia and industry.
✨Engage with the Team's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the School of Life Sciences' goals and recent projects. Show enthusiasm for their interdisciplinary approach and be ready to discuss how your expertise can contribute to their ongoing research and teaching programmes.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a list of insightful questions ready for your interviewers. This could include inquiries about collaboration opportunities across departments or how they envision the future of QSEB at Warwick. It shows you're genuinely interested and engaged.
✨Highlight Your Teaching Philosophy
Since teaching is a key part of this role, be ready to discuss your teaching methods and how you plan to enhance student learning. Share examples of how you've successfully engaged students in the past, particularly in areas like Engineering Biology and Computational Biology.