Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Epigenetics)

Job Advert

We are seeking a motivated and talented scientist to explore fundamental questions at the intersection of metabolism and epigenetics.

This project will investigate the role of nuclear-specific metabolism in cellular adaptation to nutrient availability in ageing. It builds on previous and ongoing work in the Trefely lab, which has identified distinct nuclear metabolic responses to specific nutrients, focussing on acyl-CoenzymeA thioesters, which are precursors for novel histone acylation marks (PMID: 34856123, 32199817). 

This project will advance our understanding of novel histone modifications and their roles in nutrient-responsive gene regulation. Usingcell and mouse modelsof liver and adipose tissue, we will examine acute metabolic and epigenetic responses to nutrient availability. 

The study will integrate:

Metabolomic and isotope tracing analyses, Histone modification profiling (in collaboration with the proteomics facility), Biochemical assays to explore the dynamic interactions between metabolites and epigenetic marks, Gene expression analysis (e.g., RNA-seq, qPCR), Epigenomic approaches (e.g., CUT&Tag) to uncover how these modifications influence genome regulation and cell function.

This position is part of the Babraham Institute Epigenetics ISPG core programme, and benefits from a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment. The post offers an opportunity for a talented scientist to hone expertise in metabolomics and epigenomics whilst extending knowledge of metabolic compartmentalisation in ageing.

About the Trefely Lab

The Trefely lab explores how diet-derived metabolites regulate epigenetic processes, with a particular focus on how subcellular compartmentalisation of metabolic pathways influences nuclear metabolite supply and function. This project will continue the development of advanced liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) techniques for metabolomic analysis, including nuclear- and subcellular-specific profiling pioneered in the lab. The successful candidate will benefit from access to world-class facilities and scientific expertise at the Babraham Institute.

The successful candidate will work in, and contribute to, a friendly, inclusive, collaborative and respectful working environment, where they lead their project’s development with enthusiasm, and actively contribute to a programme of group meetings and departmental seminars at BI.

We are seeking a motivated and talented scientist with:

A PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field, Strong interest or experience in metabolic research, particularly in cell culture and nutritional mouse models, Experience in biochemical and molecular biology techniques (e.g. Western blotting, subcellular fractionation, immunoprecipitation, PCR), (Desirable) Prior experience with metabolomics, especially LC-HRMS, (Desirable) Experience with large-scale data analysis (e.g., metabolomics, sequencing, or proteomics), Strong problem-solving skills, critical thinking, creativity, and attention to detail.

Training in specialised metabolic techniques will be provided, and the role offers an exceptional opportunity to develop expertise at the interface of metabolism and epigenetics.

This is a limited term appointment with funding for this post expected to be available until 31st April 2028 in first instance.

Informal inquiries should be made to Sophie Trefely ().

For more information on the work of the groups, please visit: 

Applicants must hold a PhD or have their thesis submitted when commencing the post. Please note that you will be appointed on the starting salary of £34,500 per annum, if you have not yet been awarded your PhD. All newly appointed postdocs will commence on the salary/scale point that reflects the number of years' post-PhD experience they hold on 30th June in the calendar year they commence employment.

Closing date for applications is Sunday, 20th July 2025.

However, we reserve the right to close the vacancy early depending on the volume of applications received.

The Babraham Institute welcomes applications from all sections of society.