At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to explore plant genomics and conduct cutting-edge research.
- Company: University of Bath, renowned for its commitment to diversity and innovation.
- Benefits: Generous salary, professional development, flexible work-life balance, and unique perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in plant science while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: Expertise in evolutionary analyses and single-cell transcriptomics required.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career growth and a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 46049 £ per year.
We are seeking a highly motivated research associate in the field of plant genomics and transcriptomics. You will be joining the group of Dr James Clark in the Milner Centre for Evolution, which focuses on the genomic and evolutionary origins of plant traits. Our project, in collaboration with the University of Sheffield, Bristol and the John Innes Centre, has identified a novel non-coding locus related to stomatal function and plant water use efficiency. Through comparative and evolutionary genomics, phylogenomics and single-cell transcriptomics, we are aiming to understand the origin and function of this locus in the model plant Arabidopsis and the related crop species Brassica oleracea.
Within this team, you will:
- Conduct evolutionary analyses to determine the origin of the locus within flowering plants.
- Analyse bulk and single-nucleus transcriptomic data to direct molecular and physiological studies of the locus' function.
- Through transcriptomic and bioinformatic analyses, predict the genes which interact with the locus and the means of the interaction.
This research will provide insights into the origin and mechanism of a novel, non-coding locus and more broadly into the function of non-coding genetic elements. You will be working closely with all members of the team, who will be carrying out complementary molecular and physiological assays. You will join a centre dedicated to the development of evolutionary research, within a broad and diverse Department of Life Sciences. You will be encouraged to partake in national and international conferences, as well as contribute to the research culture within the University.
As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year.
About you
- Be highly expert in performing evolutionary and bioinformatic analyses.
- Have experience in the handling and analysis of single-cell transcriptomic data.
- Be capable of conducting independent research projects, from analysis to publication.
- Be proficient working in a high-performance computing (HPC) environment.
- Have an interest in plant genomics, molecular biology and physiology.
This role is offered on a full time (36.5 hours per week) fixed term basis with an expected start date of 01/06/2026 for an expected period of 24 months.
We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equality and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.
What we can offer you:
- Free counselling services through Health Assured.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme.
- Staff discount at Team Bath gym.
- Staff discounts on postgraduate tuition fees.
- Staff discount on language courses.
- Generous employer contributory pension schemes.
- Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balance.
- A wide range of personal and professional development opportunities including Apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning and more.
- Free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath.
- Local discounts and more.
- A family-friendly workplace.
- An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce.
- Relocation allowance.
- Visa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with the cost of some immigration expenses.
Closing Date: 25 Feb 2026
Department: Education & Research
Salary: £38,784 to £46,049
Research Associate (SS13360) - Bath, BA2 7AY employer: University of Bath
Contact Detail:
University of Bath Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (SS13360) - Bath, BA2 7AY
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Bath, especially in the Milner Centre for Evolution. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just help us get our foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into plant genomics and transcriptomics. Brush up on recent research and be ready to discuss how your skills align with the team's goals. We want to show them we’re not just a good fit, but the perfect match!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase our passion for evolutionary research! During interviews, let’s share our enthusiasm for the subject and how we can contribute to the exciting projects at the University. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team at the University of Bath. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (SS13360) - Bath, BA2 7AY
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in plant genomics and transcriptomics. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for evolutionary research shine through! We love candidates who are genuinely excited about the field, so share any personal projects or experiences that fuel your interest in plant biology and genomics.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it's necessary. Make it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the Research Associate position.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can process your application smoothly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bath
✨Know Your Genomics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of plant genomics and transcriptomics. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your expertise in evolutionary analyses and single-cell transcriptomic data handling.
✨Show Your Research Independence
Highlight your ability to conduct independent research projects. Think of a project where you took the lead, from analysis to publication, and be ready to share the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Familiarise with HPC Environments
Since proficiency in high-performance computing is crucial, make sure you can talk about your experience in this area. Prepare to discuss the tools and software you've used, and how they contributed to your research outcomes.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
This role involves working closely with a team, so be ready to discuss how you collaborate with others. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive research culture and how you plan to engage with colleagues at the University of Bath.