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- Tasks: Lead innovative research in microbiology and public health genomics.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a diverse and inclusive academic environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health with cutting-edge research.
- Qualifications: PhD in microbiology and experience in microbial genomics required.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to equality, diversity, and sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes, School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health
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
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to June 2029
Closing date: 4th February 2026
Background
The post holder will work within the newly established NIHR Health Protection Unit for Public Health Genomics, a partnership between the University of Birmingham and the UK Health Security Agency. You will primarily be working in Theme 2: Applying Novel Omics Methods to Public Health Microbiology, which aims to demonstrate potential utility of new sequencing technologies such as single cell genomics, long read metagenomics and chromosomal confirmation capture (3C) in public health genomics.
Role Summary
- Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids
- Operate within area of specialism
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results
- Contribute to generating funding
- Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar
Main Duties
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Analyse and interpret data
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc.
- Supervise students 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
- Collect research data through various research methods
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof
- Provide guidance 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
- Undertake management/administration arising from research, including drafting of risk assessments and COSHH forms
- Promote equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture
Person Specification
- Undergraduate degree in biological or biomedical sciences, and a PhD degree in the field of microbiology
- Significant experience with microbiology and microbial genomics and/or microbial bioinformatics is required
- Able to perform molecular biology laboratory work applying new omics techniques to bacterial isolates, or metagenomic samples from the clinic or environment
- Able to perform downstream bioinformatics and data analysis
- Evidence of an interest in, or experience with research that is relevant to public health is desirable
- High level analytical capability
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010
Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.
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.
Research Fellow - Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes - 105518 - Grade 7 employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes - 105518 - Grade 7
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of microbiology and genomics. Attend relevant seminars or workshops, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or mentors. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Research Fellow position!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the latest omics technologies. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to public health genomics. Practise common interview questions with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your research experience! Bring along examples of your previous work, whether it’s publications, presentations, or projects. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your expertise in microbiology and microbial genomics.
✨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 are genuinely interested in joining our team at the University of Birmingham.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes - 105518 - Grade 7
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the role, so don’t be afraid to express your unique style and experiences.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for this specific role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description, especially in microbiology and public health research.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us about your accomplishments! Whether it’s a successful research project or a publication, we want to know how you’ve made an impact in your field.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll find all the details you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and the projects you’ll be working on. Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in microbiology and microbial genomics, especially those related to public health. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about specific techniques and methodologies relevant to the job, such as single cell genomics or metagenomics. Brush up on your molecular biology skills and be ready to discuss how you’ve applied these techniques in past research. Practical examples will make your answers stand out.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves disseminating research findings, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present your research or discuss how you would communicate findings to a non-specialist audience. Clear communication is key!
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Familiarise yourself with the principles of equality and diversity, especially in a research context. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to an inclusive working culture and support underrepresented groups in your research activities. This shows that you align with the university's values.
