Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting research on plant genomes and analyse gene transfer across flowering plants.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield's innovative School of Biosciences.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive leave, and a commitment to your professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in evolutionary biology and collaborate with top universities.
- Qualifications: PhD in biology or equivalent experience, with skills in bioinformatics and phylogenomics.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team driving groundbreaking research.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Are you a motivated and creative evolutionary biologist with a passion for plant‑genome analysis? We have an exciting opportunity in the School of Biosciences for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join Dr Luke Dunning’s research group. This is an excellent opportunity to play a central role in a pioneering, interdisciplinary project aimed at determining the frequency of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) across flowering plants.
Responsibilities
- Lead bioinformatic and phylogenomic analyses of over 400 flowering plant genomes from the Darwin Tree of Life initiative and use phylogenomic pipelines to quantify the frequency and diversity of HGT across angiosperms.
- Collaborate closely with partners across the Universities of Sheffield, Edinburgh, and Oxford to ensure effective data sharing, analysis coordination, and synthesis of results contributing to publications, presentations, and project reporting.
- Work collaboratively with PhD students and research technicians.
Qualifications
- Completion of a PhD (or equivalent postdoctoral level work experience) in a relevant area and a proven track record of research in biology.
- Expertise in developing bioinformatic pipelines and experience of phylogenomic analysis.
- Ability to work independently, manage your time effectively, and communicate clearly within a multidisciplinary team.
- Enthusiasm, curiosity, and a collaborative mindset.
Benefits
- Competitive annual leave entitlement.
- Flexible working opportunities.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Commitment to your professional development and wellbeing.
We build teams of people from diverse heritages and lifestyles whose talents and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching, and student experience.
Research Associate - Plant Phylogenomics in Sheffield employer: University of Sheffield
Contact Detail:
University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - Plant Phylogenomics in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Sheffield, especially in the School of Biosciences. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the research group’s work. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and projects. This shows your genuine interest and helps you stand out as a candidate who’s truly engaged.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you have experience with bioinformatic pipelines or phylogenomic analysis, be ready to discuss specific examples. We want to hear how you’ve tackled challenges and contributed to past projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to exciting research in plant phylogenomics.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - Plant Phylogenomics in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Associate role. Highlight your experience in bioinformatics and phylogenomics, and don’t forget to showcase any collaborative projects you've been part of. We want to see how your skills align with our exciting research!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for plant-genome analysis and explain why you’re excited about this specific project. We love seeing enthusiasm, so let your personality come through while keeping it professional.
Showcase Your Research Experience: In your application, be sure to detail your research experience, especially any work related to horizontal gene transfer or phylogenomic analysis. We’re looking for candidates with a proven track record, so don’t hold back on your achievements!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of plant phylogenomics and horizontal gene transfer. Familiarise yourself with the Darwin Tree of Life initiative and be ready to discuss how your previous research aligns with their goals.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with teams from different universities, highlight your experience in collaborative projects. Be prepared to share examples of how you've effectively communicated and coordinated with others in a multidisciplinary setting.
✨Demonstrate Your Bioinformatics Skills
Be ready to talk about your experience in developing bioinformatic pipelines. Bring specific examples of past projects where you successfully analysed genomic data, and explain the tools and techniques you used.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the research group and the project. This shows your enthusiasm and curiosity, which are key traits they’re looking for. Ask about future directions of the research or how they envision collaboration among team members.