Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Soil Microbiomes

Job Description

Main Purpose of the Job

Key Relationships

The post holder will work closely with line managers Prof Falk Hildebrand and Dr Chris Quince, members of their groups and the OpenCLIM_LANDS consortium. is a multi-centre UK collaboration between Earlham & Quadram Institutes, University of East Anglia, University of Leeds, Newcastle University and UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (see ).

The applicant is expected to help in the supervision of junior group members and to represent the group at training, and will have direct access to established PacBio/ONT, Hi-C and single cell sequencing facilities, as well as one of UK’s largest HPC cluster at the NRP.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

Process and analyse soil metagenomesUse machine learning/statistics to characterise & predict community statesTranslate research into semi-automatic prediction of soil health for end-usersSupport group with tasks such as outreach, student 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, Soil science, Ecology or Microbiology, or equivalent experience

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

RequirementProgramming skills ( C++, Perl, python or R)Ability to troubleshoot and solve problemsInitiative and a desire to learn, to innovate, and to move out of their comfort zoneAbility to work independently on research projectsUnderstanding of environmental microbiomes

Relevant Experience

RequirementFamiliarity with metagenomics and related bioinformatics Machine learning, advanced statistics or numerical ecology 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 undertake any necessary training for the roleAble 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 embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to workAbility to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate