Research Scientist

Background

The ability to maintain intestinal homeostasis depends on complex interactions between the gut microbiota, the intestinal epithelium, and the host immune system. Disruption of the gut barrier through diet, pathogens or drugs can cause severe intestinal inflammation which may ultimately trigger pathologic conditions, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, infection, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, or obesity. Working with a leading innovator in the field of galactooligosaccharide (GOS) technology – Clasado Biosciences, this project will aim to identify specific GOS formulations that reduce inflammation through modulation of the gut microbiota and barrier function. This will be achieved using the cutting-edge model gut systems available at the [Employer hidden].

The Role

We are looking to hire an independent Research Scientist with a background in prebiotics, gut health or gut microbiology to work on an INFORM hub project aimed at identifying prebiotic ingredients targeting the leaky gut.

The candidate will be based at the [Employer hidden] to carry out fermentation assays using high throughput in vitro colon models and analyse the effect of GOS supplementation on human gut metagenome and metabolome. The effect on fermented GOS on gut barrier function will be tested using intestinal epithelium organoid-based models. The candidate will work closely with the academic and industrial partners.

The Ideal Candidate

• A PhD in Biological Sciences.
• Previous experience working with in vitro gut models, prebiotics and the gut microbiome is essential.
• Experience working with industrial partners would be advantageous.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Experience of microbiome, host and carbohydrate interactions would be advantageous.
• Ability to prioritise workload and deliver work to deadlines.

Additional Information

Salary on appointment will be within the range £36,720 to £39,750 per annum depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time post for a contract of 6 months.

Further information and details of how to apply can be found on the HR website, or contact the Human Resources team on [contact hidden] or [contact hidden] quoting reference 1004779. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sectors of society. The Institute supports equality of opportunity within the workplace and expects all employees to share and display these values. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy.

About the [Employer hidden]

The [Employer hidden] is an interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to understanding how food and microbes interact to promote health and prevent disease. Its mission is to deliver healthier lives through innovation in gut health, microbiology and food. A partnership between [Employer hidden] Bioscience, the University of East Anglia, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and BBSRC, it brings together scientists and clinicians in a state-of-the-art building on the Norwich Research Park.

About Clasado Biosciences

Clasado is a leading biotechnology pioneer in the development of microbiome science, producing prebiotic ingredients and consumer products targeted at gastrointestinal health destined for the food and healthcare sectors. The company is a leading innovator in the field of galactooligosaccaride (GOS) technology and is the exclusive manufacturer & supplier of the unique, patented Bimuno® – the world’s most advanced functional prebiotic ingredient.