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- Tasks: Conduct bioinformatics research on tree species to enhance breeding techniques.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham's School of Biosciences, a hub for innovative research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental sustainability through cutting-edge research.
- Qualifications: PhD in Bioinformatics or related field; experience with RNA-seq data analysis required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and involvement in diverse research projects.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Position Details
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822. As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7, salary £36,636. Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to March 2028. Closing date: 2nd December 2025.
Background
The Plackett and Kettles labs at the University of Birmingham are seeking to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Fellow with expertise in bioinformatics to undertake a 2-year project ‘Speed breeding technologies for UK broadleaved trees’ as part of the Defra-funded Centre for Forest Protection (CFP). This project is a UK-wide collaboration with Dr Abigail Johnson (Niab East Malling Research) and Prof Richard Buggs (Kew Royal Botanic Gardens). With this project we aim to identify whether it is possible to accelerate the maturation and flowering of three tree species (Oak, Ash and Silver Birch) through applying ‘speed breeding’ conditions as a tool to enable future breeding programmes in these species to improve resistance to disease and environmental stress.
Role Summary
The Research Fellow will have responsibility for the analysis of samples taken from an ongoing speed-breeding experiment (managed by Dr Abigail Johnson, Niab-EMR). Using RNA‑seq and pan‑genomic analysis they will identify common gene networks underpinning responses to speed‑breeding conditions across these three species; identify underlying genetic variation in candidate flowering genes in their respective genomes (in collaboration with Prof Richard Buggs, Kew RBG) and identify genetic loci within diverse Ash populations responsible for their being more or less responsive to speed breeding conditions. In addition to bioinformatic analysis the Research Fellow will ideally contribute in the wet‑lab preparation of samples for next‑generation sequencing. The Research Fellow will be part of the project management team and participate in collaborative teams meetings with other project Institutions and quarterly review meetings with Defra, where they will have responsibility for the delivery of key project milestones. The Research Fellow will play a key role in contributing to publications arising from this project and have the opportunity to engage with additional projects within the Plackett and Kettles groups.
Main Duties
- Undertake experimental work under the supervision of Dr Andrew Plackett and Dr Graeme Kettles to collect research data. This will be primarily bioinformatic (dry lab) in nature but will also include supporting wet‑lab duties such as RNA extraction.
- Manage their time to achieve key project milestones in data preparation, analysis and interpretation by specified dates to meet funder requirements.
- Analyse and interpret data.
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required. This will include contributing to the design of follow‑on experiments to meet the research goals of the project, in collaboration with the wider project team.
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding based on the experimental data gathered.
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding.
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc.
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline.
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods.
- Undertake management/administration arising from research.
- Contribute to Departmental/School research‑related activities and research‑related administration.
- Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader.
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters.
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research.
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines.
- Promote equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.
Person Specification
Qualifications- A Bachelors or Masters degree in a relevant STEM discipline (eg. Biological sciences, Data Science).
- A PhD (or near completion) in Bioinformatics, Plant Genomics or other related field appropriate to the goals of this project.
- Demonstrable prior experience in bioinformatic analysis of RNA‑seq data using R or Python is essential.
- Prior experience successfully undertaking a research programme is essential.
- Past experience undertaking bioinformatic analysis of pan‑genome data is desirable.
- Past wet‑lab experience in the preparation of samples for RNA‑seq analysis would be an advantage.
- Past experience in tree biology research would be an advantage.
- Ideally, the candidate will have demonstrated writing ability through previous publication(s) in high‑quality journals, though this is not prerequisite.
- Proficiency in bioinformatic analysis of large datasets, specifically in the areas of RNA‑seq and/or pan‑genomic analysis.
- Proficiency in the R or Python programming languages, familiarity in Bioconductor packages and Linux command line.
Informal enquiries to Andy Plackett, email: A.R.G.Plackett@bham.ac.uk
We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) - School of Biosciences - 106589 - Grade 7 in Birmingham employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) - School of Biosciences - 106589 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Birmingham, especially in the School of Biosciences. A friendly chat can give us insights into the team culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the project details. Familiarise yourself with speed breeding technologies and the specific tree species involved. Showing genuine interest will definitely impress the hiring team!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your skills! Bring examples of your previous bioinformatics work, especially any RNA-seq analysis you've done. We want to see how you can contribute to the project right from the get-go.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at the University of Birmingham.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) - School of Biosciences - 106589 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Fellow position. Highlight your bioinformatics expertise and any relevant experience with RNA-seq or pan-genomic analysis. We want to see how your skills align with our project goals!
Showcase Your Experience: Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us about your past research projects and what you achieved. If you've published papers, mention them! We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their contributions to the field.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless necessary. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your strengths.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials correctly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at the University of Birmingham!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your bioinformatics skills, especially in RNA-seq and pan-genomic analysis. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how you used R or Python to analyse data. This will show that you're not just familiar with the tools, but that you can apply them effectively.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working with various teams, be prepared to talk about your experience in collaborative projects. Highlight any past teamwork, especially in research settings, and how you contributed to achieving common goals. This will demonstrate that you can thrive in a team environment.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to your field. Review key concepts in plant genomics and speed breeding technologies. Being able to explain complex ideas clearly will impress your interviewers and show that you have a solid grasp of the subject matter.
✨Engage with the Project's Goals
Familiarise yourself with the project’s objectives and the broader implications of the research. Be ready to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the goals of the 'Speed breeding technologies for UK broadleaved trees' project. Showing genuine interest in the project will set you apart from other candidates.
