National AI Awards 2025Discover AI's trailblazers! Join us to celebrate innovation and nominate industry leaders.

Nominate & Attend

Metagenomics Research Scientist

NBI Partnership
Norfolk
1 month ago
Create job alert

Job Description

Main Purpose of the Job

Key Relationships

The postholder will work closely with other group members and the line manager Dr Falk Hildebrand. Further, close interactions with other QIB groups are expected, as the project will be embedded in core research activities across multiple groups at the Quadram Institute and key partners, such as Earlham and John Innes Institutes, as well as Imperial College.

The applicant is expected to help in the supervision of junior group members and to represent the group at trainings. The applicant will have direct access to established 2nd and 3rd generation sequencing facilities, one of UK’s largest HPC clusters, and cutting-edge microbial laboratories, mice, microscopy and FACS facilities as well as in vitro gut microbiome simulators.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

Investigate diet impact on gut microbiomes via numerical ecology, population genetics and machine learningPredict gene functions and functional interactions in microbiomesDevelop new methods (bioinformatic or wetlab) to investigate novel angles in microbiomesSupport group with tasks such as outreach, supervision, writing grantsAs agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, for example, contributing to the work of Institute committees

Person Profile

Education & Qualifications

RequirementPhD in Bioinformatics, Food science, Microbiology, or equivalent experience

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

RequirementProgramming skills ( C++, Perl, python or R)Understanding of microbiomes, preferably gastrointestinal microbiomesAbility to troubleshoot and solve problemsAbility to work independently on research projectsInitiative and a desire to learn, to innovate, and to move out of their comfort zone

Relevant Experience

RequirementFamiliarity with meta*omics, high-resolution data or binningBioinformatics or molecular biology experienceProven track-record of research output at the appropriate levelExperience grant writing or supervising lab members

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

RequirementExcellent communication skills, both written and oralPromotes and strives for continuous improvementExcellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work alone and as part of a teamReliable and conscientious

Additional Requirements

RequirementAttention to detailPromotes equality and values diversityWillingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to workAble to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the InstituteWillingness to work outside standard working hours when requiredWillingness to undertake any necessary training for the role

National AI Awards 2025

Subscribe to Future Tech Insights for the latest jobs & insights, direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

10 Biotechnology Recruitment Agencies in the UK You Should Know (2025 Job‑Seeker Guide)

The UK’s biotech boom—fueled by the £650 million Life Sciences Vision Fund and rapid mRNA, cell & gene‑therapy adoption—continues to outpace talent supply. Lightcast reported +45 % year‑on‑year growth in UK adverts mentioning “CRISPR”, “GMP bioprocess” or “cell therapy” during Q1 2025. Yet only about 25,000 specialised biotech professionals work nationwide, while monthly live vacancies average 1,800–2,100. All data verified 22 July 2025; re‑audit quarterly for freshness.. Specialist recruiters remain critical for tapping stealth roles, benchmarking salaries and streamlining the lab‑tour interview gauntlet. We reviewed 60 + consultancies and kept only agencies with: A registered UK head office (Companies House). A dedicated Biotechnology / Life‑Sciences practice. At least five UK biotech roles advertised between March and June 2025. Below you’ll find a hiring‑landscape snapshot, a quick directory of 10 vetted agencies, salary medians, in‑demand skills, interview expectations, FAQs and next steps—mirroring our AI and quantum guides.

Biotech Jobs Skills Radar 2026: Emerging Tools, Platforms & Technologies to Learn Now

The UK biotechnology sector is entering a new era—fuelled by AI integration, synthetic biology, and next-gen diagnostics. With biotech investment breaking records and a surge in demand for skilled talent across R&D, biomanufacturing, and regulatory fields, it’s vital for job seekers to future-proof their skillsets. Welcome to the Biotech Jobs Skills Radar 2026—a forward-looking guide to the emerging tools, lab techniques, platforms, and digital skills driving hiring in the UK's biotechnology industry. This radar is updated annually to help students, researchers, and transitioning professionals stay competitive in a fast-changing landscape.

How to Find Hidden Biotechnology Jobs in the UK Using Professional Bodies like the RSB, BIA, BioIndustry Association & More

The UK biotechnology sector is thriving. From cutting-edge gene therapies and synthetic biology to bio-manufacturing and agricultural innovation, the demand for skilled biotech professionals continues to grow. Yet many of the best opportunities—particularly in early-stage companies, startups, and research-intensive roles—are never listed on conventional job boards. So where do these hidden biotech jobs live? Often, they’re shared through word-of-mouth, member networks, or professional communities—especially those associated with leading biotech institutions and associations. Whether you’re a graduate looking for your first role, a research scientist ready to move into industry, or a regulatory professional seeking your next challenge, joining the right professional bodies can give you exclusive access to job leads, collaborations, and insider opportunities. In this article, we’ll show you how to strategically leverage UK-based organisations such as the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), BioIndustry Association (BIA), and Biotech and Life Sciences Networks to uncover hidden jobs and build a long-term, sustainable career in biotechnology.