At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to analyse ribosome data and develop innovative computational methods.
- Company: University of Leeds, a leading research-intensive institution committed to inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy 42 days of holiday, generous pension, and access to top-notch gym facilities.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a supportive environment for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in understanding mRNA translation and advance your research career.
- Qualifications: Background in computational biology and bioinformatics is essential.
The predicted salary is between 41064 - 48822 £ per year.
Are you an ambitious researcher looking for your next challenge? Do you have an established background in computational biology and bioinformatics? Do you want to further your career in one of the UK’s leading research intensive Universities?
We are looking for an outstanding postdoctoral research fellow to join the Aspden group at the University of Leeds. The postdoc will be part of a large team (£5.6M, funded by a BBSRC Strategic Longer and Larger grant). The team aims to unravel the 'ribosome code', rules that explain how compositionally dissecting ribosomes enable translation of specific sets of mRNAs. Specifically, the postdoc will focus on dissecting the molecular mechanisms using bioinformatics and computational approaches. This will include analysing ribosome profiling data and direct-RNA-Seq data, as well as building novel pipelines and employing machine learning approaches to predict translational output. The postdoc will work closely with others of the team who will generate the data. Together we will be able to dissect conserved mechanisms of ribosome specialisation across eukaryotes, allowing us to unravel the 'ribosome code'.
The University of Leeds and the Faculty of Biological Sciences are committed to providing equal opportunities for all and offer a range of family friendly policies. The University is a charter member of Athena SWAN (the national body that promotes gender equality in higher education), and the Faculty of Biological Sciences was awarded a Silver award in 2020. We are proud to be an inclusive Faculty that values all staff, and are happy to consider job share applications and requests for flexible working arrangements from our employees.
What we offer in return:
- 26 days holiday plus approx. 16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) - That's 42 days a year!
- Generous pension scheme options plus life assurance.
- Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
- Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team.
- Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.
- And much more!
To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact: Dr Julie Aspden Email: j.aspden@leeds.ac.uk
Find out more about the Faculty of Biological Sciences and the RiboCode project.
Job Details:
- Location: Leeds - Main Campus
- Faculty/Service: Faculty of Biological Sciences
- School/Institute: School of Molecular & Cellular Biology
- Category: Research
- Grade: Grade 7
- Salary: £41,064 to £48,822 per annum
- Post Type: Full Time
- Contract Type: Fixed Term (12 Months - To complete specific time limited work.)
- Release Date: Wednesday 19 August 2026
- Closing Date: Wednesday 02 September 2026
Research Fellow in computational approaches to study mRNA translation in Leeds employer: University of Leeds
The University of Leeds is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration between academia and industry. With opportunities for hybrid working, generous holiday allowances, and a robust pension scheme, employees are supported in their professional growth while contributing to meaningful research and innovation initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in computational approaches to study mRNA translation in Leeds
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
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✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like University of Leeds!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in computational approaches to study mRNA translation in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show University of Leeds that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at University of Leeds.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that University of Leeds does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Leeds
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at University of Leeds. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into University of Leeds's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at University of Leeds. This shows your passion for the industry!
