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

Education & Qualifications

Requirement

Importance

PhD in relevant area of molecular biology

Essential

First degree in relevant scientific area

Essential

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

Requirement

Importance

Ability to independently organise and pursue research agenda

Essential

DNA extraction

Essential

Track-record of presentations to scientific conferences

Essential

Track-record of publications in international journals

Essential

High-level of proficiency with molecular biology

Essential

Long-read sequencing e.g. Nanopore

Desirable

Relevant Experience

Requirement

Importance

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

Requirement

Importance

Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work well as part of a team

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

Requirement

Importance

Attention to detail

Essential

Promotes equality and values diversity

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

Willingness to work outside standard hours as required

Essential

Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate

Essential

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 on +44 (0)1603 450888 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk.

For more information about working at Quadram Institute Bioscience, please click here.

Department

Food, Microbiome and Health

Group Details

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.

Living in Norfolk

• Visit Norfolk
• Schools in Norfolk
• Childcare in Norfolk

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

Applications are invited for a Research Scientist to join the Laboratory of Dr Quince in the Food, Microbiome and Health programme at Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB), based in Norwich, UK.

The role:

This postdoctoral position at the Quadram Institute Bioscience focuses on the development of novel experimental methods for the study of the human microbiome. The position will be associated with Dr Quince’s High-resolution Microbiomics group, jointly at Quadram Institute Bioscience and the Earlham Institute. The research programme will be developed by the applicant in conjunction with Dr 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 metagenomics, 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 for instance through interaction with immune system. This represents an opportunity for an individual with a strong track record in microbiome research to guide their own research agenda. The applicant will be supported in fellowship applications. 

The ideal candidate:

Candidates will possess a PhD in a relevant area of molecular biology, plus a first degree in a relevant scientific field. Experience of ‘omics data generation and DNA extraction is essential as is a strong publication track record. Experience of working with microbiome samples and/or culturing microbes is desirable. Bioinformatics experience is desirable but not essential.

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.

For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our website https://jobs.quadram.ac.uk or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004983. 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 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.

About the Quadram Institute:

The Quadram Institute is a new 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 Quadram Institute 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. This is one of Europe’s largest centres of life sciences and home of the John Innes Centre and The Earlham Institute. (https://quadram.ac.uk/).

The closing date for applications will be 30 November 2025.

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