Research Scientist (Bioinformatics)

Quadram Institute; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute in the United Kingdom seeks a Postdoctoral Scientist in Bioinformatics to develop computational methods for microbiome and omics data analysis. The role involves interdisciplinary collaboration, advanced data analysis, and contributing to scientific publications. Candidates should have a PhD in a relevant field and a strong background in bioinformatics. The position offers a salary of £37,500 to £41,500 per annum for a two-year contract.

Qualifications

• Strong background in bioinformatics for omics data analysis.
• Experience in proteomics/metaproteomics data analysis.
• Proficiency in programming/scripting (e.g., Python, Linux).
• Experience with machine learning or AI approaches in biology.
• Knowledge of statistical methods for high-dimensional data.
• Proven record in scientific writing and publication.
• Experience presenting research at scientific meetings.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and apply computational workflows.
• Experience supervising students or providing technical training.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimise bioinformatics pipelines for analysis.
• Integrate metaproteomics data with other omics for biological insights.
• Apply and adapt machine learning methods for peptide/protein analysis.
• Perform large-scale data management and computational analyses.
• Prepare results and manuscripts for publication and presentations.
• Assist in the preparation of research proposals and grant applications.

Skills

Computational biology

Bioinformatics

AI-driven data analysis

Programming (Python, Linux)

Machine learning

Statistical methods

Scientific writing

Research presentation

Team collaboration

Time management

Education

PhD in Bioinformatics or related field

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist in Bioinformatics to join a collaborative team working on the development of next-generation computational methods for microbiome and metaproteomics data analysis.

The ideal candidate will have expertise in computational biology, bioinformatics, and AI-driven data analysis, with applications to large-scale omics datasets. This position focuses on developing and applying innovative workflows for metaproteomics and multi-omics integration to advance precision microbiome research and intervention strategies.

The post holder will work closely with a multidisciplinary group of researchers and have access to state-of-the‑art infrastructure at the Quadram Institute, including metagenomics, metaproteomics, and metabolomics facilities. The primary focus is to design, implement, and optimise computational pipelines and machine learning models to interpret microbiome functions and their impact on host health, with applications in precision nutrition and medicine.

Key Relationships

The post holder will work closely with the Group Leader (Kai Cheng), other group members, and key collaborators at QIB. They will also engage with the Bioinformatics Team.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimise bioinformatics pipelines for metaproteomics and multi‑omics data analysis (15%)
• Integrate metaproteomics data with other omics (e.g., metagenomics, metabolomics) to generate biological insights into the human microbiome (15%)
• Apply and adapt machine learning/AI methods for peptide/protein identification, quantification, and functional annotation (15%)
• Perform large‑scale data management, curation, and computational analyses using high‑performance computing resources (15%)
• Prepare results, reports, and manuscripts for publication in leading scientific journals and other relevant media. Disseminate research findings through presentations at internal, national, and international meetings (10%)
• Assist in the preparation of research proposals and grant applications, collaborating internally and externally as appropriate (10%)
• Support the profile and reputation of the Institute by participating in relevant engagement activities (e.g., conferences, outreach) (5%)
• Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, scientific integrity, and in compliance with local policies and legal requirements (5%)
• Contribute to the smooth running of the group, including mentoring less experienced researchers and assisting with training in bioinformatics workflows (5%)
• Any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, as agreed with the line manager (5%)

Person Profile

PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, or a relevant field (essential).

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

• Strong background in bioinformatics for omics data analysis (essential)
• Experience in proteomics/metaproteomics data analysis (DDA/DIA‑MS) (essential)
• Proficiency in programming/scripting (e.g., Python, Linux) (essential)
• Experience with machine learning or AI approaches in biology (essential)
• Knowledge of statistical methods for high‑dimensional data (essential)
• Proven record in scientific writing and publication (essential)
• Experience presenting research at scientific meetings (essential)
• Demonstrated ability to develop and apply computational workflows (essential)
• Experience supervising students or providing technical training (essential)
• Experience in multi‑omics data integration, familiarity with microbiome or clinical datasets (desirable)
• Contributions to collaborative or open‑source bioinformatics projects (desirable)

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

• Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a team (essential)
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral (essential)
• Strong organisational and time management skills (essential)
• Ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders (essential)
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills (essential)
• Ability to work to deadlines (essential)

Additional Requirements

• Attention to detail (essential)
• Promotes equality and values diversity (essential)
• Commitment to scientific integrity and best practices (essential)
• Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work (essential)
• Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute (essential)
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate (essential)
• Willingness to undertake occasional travel (national and international) related to collaborations and conferences (desirable)

Key Details

Salary range: £37,500 to £41,500 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full‑time post for a contract of two years.

Who We Are

Quadram Institute Bioscience

The Quadram Institute is at the forefront of a new interface between food science, gut biology and health, developing solutions to worldwide challenges in food‑related disease and human health. We are engaged in fundamental and translational food and health research, alongside clinical studies, endoscopy and industry, working together to become a leading international hub for food and health research, combining scientific excellence and clinical expertise, delivering impacts on patient care and accelerating innovation.

The Quadram Institute is a diverse and multicultural scientific community. We thrive on our international and European links, appointing staff from across the world. Any candidate who would like further information on current or anticipated immigration requirements can contact the HR Team.

We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and welcome applications from all sectors of society. The Institute values of Respect, Innovation, Collaboration and Excellence are at the heart of all we do, and we expect all employees to share and display these values. To support our commitment, we have a range of family, faith and diversity friendly working arrangements to help all staff achieve excellence in their area of work.

As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy.

The Quadram Institute Bioscience is a registered charity (No. 1058499) and is an Equal Opportunities Employer.