Research Assistant: Microbial Bioinformatics

University of Sheffield; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Sheffield is seeking a Research Assistant to investigate the roles of MFRE fungi in plant interactions. The ideal candidate will have a BSc or MSc in a relevant field and experience with molecular techniques and data analysis. Responsibilities include developing frameworks for dataset interpretation, contributing to ecological understanding. This role offers a vibrant research environment within the School of Biosciences.

Qualifications

• Experience in molecular techniques and research methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to work independently.
• Experience with multi-trophic scenarios in plant-microbe interactions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply analytical frameworks for large datasets.
• Generate insights into MFRE distribution and function.

Skills

Research in molecular techniques

Statistical analysis

Bioinformatic analysis

Time management

Communication skills

Education

BSc or MSc in biology, ecology, microbiology, plant science, or soil science

Job description

Overview

University of Sheffield
A Research Assistant position, funded by the European Research Council, is available in the research group of Prof. Katie Field who leads the project in collaboration with Prof. Tim Daniell at the University of Sheffield and Dr Silvia Pressel at the Natural History Museum, London. You will be sited within the vibrant research environment of the School of Biosciences but will work closely with the collaborative network.

Recent discoveries have shown that Mucoromycotina “fine root endophyte” (MFRE) fungi form mutualistic symbioses with a wide range of land plants, spanning the entire plant phylogeny. However, despite their widespread occurrence, the fundamental biology of MFRE fungi remains poorly understood. This knowledge gap limits our ability to fully grasp the complexity, ecological function, and evolutionary significance of plant-fungal interactions in contemporary terrestrial ecosystems. This project aims to address these critical gaps by investigating the functional roles and distribution patterns of plant-MFRE symbioses using an integrated, multi-scale approach. Combining controlled laboratory experiments, field studies, and advanced microscopy, the project will generate comprehensive datasets to unravel the ecological and functional diversity of MFRE associations. You will be responsible for developing and applying analytical frameworks to interpret these large datasets, enabling new insights into the distribution and function of MFRE, particularly how they may contribute to plant health, diversity, and ecosystem dynamics across a range of environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply analytical frameworks to interpret large datasets related to MFRE, enabling new insights into distribution and function across environments.

Qualifications

• BSc or MSc in biology, ecology, microbiology, plant science, soil science, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Experience in research using molecular techniques, isotope tracers, and statistical or bioinformatic analysis of large datasets related to plant-microbe interactions, particularly in multi-trophic scenarios.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team, with excellent time management and communication skills.

Diversity and Inclusion

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.