Research Scientist (novel ‘omics methods for the study of the human microbiome)

Quadram Institute; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in the UK is seeking a Research Scientist to develop novel ‘omics methods for microbiome research. This role involves conducting experiments, mentoring junior researchers, and publishing findings. Essential qualifications include a PhD in molecular biology and a strong track record in research and publications. The position offers a salary between £37,500 and £45,350 per annum and is full-time until 31 March 2028.

Benefits

Equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives

Family, faith, and diversity friendly working arrangements

Disability Confident employer guarantees interview

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant area of molecular biology required.
• First degree in a relevant scientific area is mandatory.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required.

Responsibilities

• Develop novel protocols for experimental microbiome research.
• Apply ‘omics methods to microbiome samples.
• Conduct experiments with the artificial colon system.
• Mentor more junior researchers.
• Submit publications to peer-reviewed journals.

Skills

Ability to independently organise and pursue a research agenda

DNA extraction

Track record of presentations to scientific conferences

Track record of publications in international journals

High-level proficiency with molecular biology

Experience with ‘omics data generation

Excellent interpersonal skills

Excellent communication skills

Education

PhD in a relevant area of molecular biology

First degree in a relevant scientific area

Job description

Research Scientist (novel ‘omics methods for the study of the human microbiome)

Job Title: Research Scientist (novel ‘omics methods for the study of the human microbiome)
Post Number: 1004983
Closing Date: 30 Nov 2025
Grade: SC6
Starting Salary: £37,500–£45,350

Funding End Date: 30 Mar 2028
Hours per week: 37
Project Title: Pioneering novel ‘omics methods for the study of the human microbiome
Expected/Ideal Start Date: 01 Jan 2026
Duration: 27 months

Job Description

Main Purpose of the Job

This role will focus on the long‑term development of novel experimental methods for the study of the human microbiome. The position will be associated with Prof Quince’s High‑resolution Microbiomics group, jointly at Quadram/Earlham. The research programme will be developed by the applicant in conjunction with Prof Quince, but the aim will be to drive forward the next generation of methods in microbiome research. These will include improved strategies for characterising microbial communities in situ to the strain level, for instance, long‑read or single cell sequencing, or novel Hi‑C library preparations. In addition to methods that determine the function of community members, for example utilising metabolomics and metaproteomics. These methods will be applied to current key questions in microbiome research. Using samples generated from both mouse experiments and human clinical trials we will determine how the microbiome responds to perturbations such as antibiotics, invasions and changes in dietary fibre. We will also explore the consequences to the host of these microbiome responses.

Key Relationships

Internal: Line manager, group members and, as necessary, other researchers, research support staff and students across the Institute.
External: Collaborators

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• Develop novel protocols for experimental microbiome research.
• Apply ‘omics methods to microbiome samples.
• Conduct experiments with the artificial colon system and gnotobiotic mice for the validation of methods and novel hypothesis generation.
• Develop independent research programs in the area of microbiome research.
• Mentor more junior researchers and assist with their experimental methods development.
• Submit publications to peer‑reviewed international journals.
• Give talks/seminars at national and international conferences.
• Assist with writing grant proposals.
• As agreed with line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the role.

Person Profile

Education, qualifications, specialist knowledge & skills, interpersonal & communication skills, and additional requirements are specified below.

Education & Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant area of molecular biology – Essential
• First degree in a relevant scientific area – Essential

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

• Ability to independently organise and pursue a research agenda – Essential
• DNA extraction – Essential
• Track record of presentations to scientific conferences – Essential
• Track record of publications in international journals – Essential
• High‑level proficiency with molecular biology – Essential
• Long‑read sequencing (e.g., Nanopore) – Desirable
• Experience with ‘omics data generation – Essential
• Direct experience working with microbiome samples – Desirable
• Experience culturing microbes – Desirable
• Experience with novel library preparation techniques such as Hi‑C – Desirable
• Experience of supporting students and junior researchers – Desirable

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills – Essential
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal – Essential
• Promotes and strives for continuous improvement – Essential
• Demonstrated ability to work independently using initiative and applying problem‑solving skills – Essential

Additional Requirements

• Attention to detail – Essential
• Promotes equality and values diversity – Essential
• Willingness to embrace expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute – Essential
• Ability to present a positive image of self and the Institute – Essential
• Willingness to work outside standard hours as required – Essential
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate – Essential

Who We Are

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 on [phone] or [e-mail].

Prof Quince’s High‑resolution Microbiomics group, jointly at the Quadram/Earlham, focuses on the development and application of novel algorithmic and experimental methods for the study of microbial communities.

Application 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.

For further information and details of how to apply, please visit https://jobs.quadram.ac.uk or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or [e-mail], quoting reference 1004983.

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.