Research Scientist: Horizontal gene transfer in the gut microbiome

The Role

This postdoctoral position at the Quadram Institute focuses on the development of novel experimental methods to better understand horizontal gene transfer in the gut microbiome using both human in vivo data and mouse experiments. The position will be associated with Dr Quince’s High-resolution Microbiomics group, jointly at Quadram Institute and the Earlham Institute.

The research programme will be developed by the applicant in conjunction with Dr Quince, but the principal aim will be to develop cutting-edge technologies including long reads, single-cell sequencing, and novel Hi-C library preparation to enable HGT to be tracked in situ in microbiomes. These will then be used to understand microbiome evolutionary dynamics at high-resolution in response to perturbations such as diet and antibiotics. Samples will be obtained from mouse experiments and potentially human clinical trials. We will also explore the consequences to the host of these microbiome changes for instance through interaction with the immune system.

Ideal Candidate

• PhD in a relevant area of molecular biology or microbiology
• First degree in a relevant scientific field
• Experience in 'omics data generation and DNA extraction (essential)
• Strong publication track record
• Experience with microbiome samples, long read sequencing, library preparation and/or culturing microbes (desirable)
• Bioinformatics and statistical analysis experience (desirable)

Additional Information

Salary on appointment will be within the range £37,500 to £45,350 per annum depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time post available until 31 March 2028.

Further information and details of how to apply can be found at https://jobs.quadram.ac.uk/ or contact the Human Resources team on [contact hidden] or [contact hidden] quoting reference 1004983. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

[Employer hidden] is a registered charity (No. 1058499) and is an Equal Opportunities Employer.