Research Associate – Research Associate in Microbiome Ecology

RFCSR; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 37,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the UK is seeking a Research Associate in Microbiome Ecology for a 30-month contract. The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary research project, focusing on microbial community assembly and function. Responsibilities include leading data analysis and collaborating in experimental design. Applicants should have a PhD in a relevant field and a strong interest in microbiome research. This position offers a supportive environment and potential for hybrid work arrangements.

Qualifications

• PhD or submitted thesis in microbial ecology, bioinformatics, or related field.
• Strong academic record with microbiome research experience.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead mathematical modelling and bioinformatic analyses of microbiome data.
• Collaborate in experimental design and interpretation of results.
• Engage in scientific discussions and outputs.

Skills

Mathematical modelling

Bioinformatic analyses

Collaborative work

Strong communication skills

Computational tools

Education

PhD in relevant discipline

Job description

Research Associate – Research Associate in Microbiome Ecology

The University of Manchester
Manchester, United Kingdom

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic interdisciplinary research project as a Research Associate in Microbiome Ecology, based within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at The University of Manchester. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of microbial community assembly, stability, and function. This work is part of a landmark Pushing the Frontiers grant funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and is deeply embedded in collaborative research that spans field sampling, laboratory experiments, mathematical modelling, and bioinformatic analysis. The post-holder will work alongside leading investigators from the MERMan research cluster — a vibrant network of more than 100 researchers focused on microbial ecology and evolution — and will benefit from access to cutting‑edge laboratory and computational facilities.

This fixed‑term position (30‑month contract) is ideal for researchers ready to make meaningful contributions to ecological microbiome science. The role offers a supportive academic environment committed to fostering equality, diversity, and work‑life balance, with potential for hybrid working arrangements where appropriate.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should hold a PhD (or have submitted for the award) in a relevant discipline, such as microbial ecology, bioinformatics, computational biology, ecology, or a related field. A strong academic record with experience or demonstrable interest in microbiome research is expected.

Required Expertise and Skills

• Lead mathematical modelling and bioinformatic analyses of microbiome data.
• Collaborate in experimental design and interpretation of results across field and lab work.
• Work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Strong communication skills for contributing to scientific discussions and outputs.
• Familiarity with computational tools and approaches relevant to ecological data analysis.

Salary Details

Salary for this role is £37,694 – £39,906 per annum, dependent on relevant experience.

Application Deadline

The closing date for applications is 1 March 2026.