Research Scientist (Data Science)

Job Description

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

Main Purpose of the Job

Investigate the impact of fermented, plant based foods on the human gut microbiome and evaluate potential pathogenic interactions with the host to develop new standards for food safety.

Analyse taste and texture of fermented foods from fermentation consortia, predict these attributes from microbial community data, and identify microbial species that influence fermentation outcomes.

Develop next generation microbial community modelling tools using AI, building on earlier work in the group (doi:10.1016/j.chom.2023.05.024; doi:10.1093/nar/gkaf1388).

Work as part of the inter disciplinary FlavourFerm consortium, collaborating with food scientists, machine learning experts, and microbiologists across Europe.

Key Relationships

Collaborate closely with Prof Falk Hildebrand, Dr Maria Traka, the Traka group at QIB, Syddansk University (Denmark) and the Austrian Institute of Technology, and other FlavourFerm partners.

Supervise junior group members and represent the group at training events and consortium meetings.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• Prepare and analyse metagenomes from in vitro gut models using high resolution, genome resolved metagenomics.
• Develop statistical frameworks to describe microbiome perturbations (e.g., NMF, network analysis).
• Apply machine learning approaches to predict the impact of microbes on food fermentation performance.
• Support the group with outreach, student supervision, and grant writing.
• Represent the group at collaborative meetings and in line manager discussions.

Education & Qualifications

• PhD in Bioinformatics, Population Genetics, Ecology, Microbiology, or equivalent.

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

• Programming skills in Python, R, or Bash.
• Experience working independently on research projects.
• Strong initiative, willingness to learn, and ability to innovate.
• Proficient troubleshooting and problem solving skills.
• Machine learning/AI expertise.
• Proven track record of research output at the appropriate level.
• Familiarity with DNA sequencing bioinformatics.
• Experience in metagenomics (high resolution, MAGs).
• Desirable: experience with fermentation microbiomes, grant writing, and supervising lab members.

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills, capable of working both independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable, conscientious, and promoting continuous improvement.

Additional Requirements

• Attention to detail.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Willingness to work outside standard hours when required.
• Openness to training needed for the role.

About Quadram Institute Bioscience

QIB lies within the Norwich Research Park, a leading hub for food, genomics, and health research in Europe. The institute collaborates with industry, clinical services, and academia to promote scientific excellence and innovation.

Closing Information

Salary: £37,500-£43,350 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience.

The position is full time until 30 April 2028, with a closing date for applications on 17 May 2026.

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

For more information about the role or visa arrangements, please contact the Human Resources Team.