Postdoctoral Researcher, Biodiversity Genomics
Postdoctoral Researcher, Biodiversity Genomics
In March 2021, Kew launched its Manifesto for Change followed by a new Science Strategy 2021-2025. At the core of both of these documents is the ambition to develop solutions for the protection and recovery of the world’s rapidly disappearing biodiversity, while providing benefits to people and their livelihoods. This can only come from a deeper understanding of biodiversity, its interactions and its functions, to which this role will make a key contribution.
The primary purpose of this role is to deliver RBG Kew’s mission to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth through conducting genomic research. The successful candidate will be a member of the high-profile, multidisciplinary team led by the Director of Science, Prof. Alexandre Antonelli (group PI). The Antonelli Lab is an international research group with a broad range of expertise and interests, who collaborate on research concerning the evolution and conservation of biodiversity, particularly in the tropics and increasingly focusing on research in Brazil’s Atlantic Rainforest under the umbrella of the Atlantic Forest Research and Conservation Alliance (www.araca-project.org) led by Prof. Antonelli. The postholder will have access to Kew’s world-renowned collections and laboratory facilities, and will be part of a vibrant, multidisciplinary research environment.
More details
Building on and complementing RBG Kew’s extensive experience in the areas of biodiversity genomics and conservation, we seek a motivated postdoctoral researcher to conduct a project focused on the genomic and functional diversity of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. The researcher will also be expected to contribute to other projects within the group, where capacity allows and as opportunities arise.
The data generation component of the project will be centred on the Alto da Figueira reserve outside Nova Friburgo in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where a world-class research station will open in April this year. The primary project is an assessment of the microbial diversity in the biofilms present on a single tropical tree currently being surveyed, to unlock information about potentially useful compounds and applications; with an additional possibility of a study focused on three permanent 50x50 ecological plots where environmental DNA samples would provide an in-depth characterisation of the genomic composition, biotic interactions and bioeconomic potential of the sites.
In both cases, we aim to apply Oxford Nanopore Technologies to yield a comprehensive 3D functional diversity map of the research target (the tree and/or the sites), integrating genomic, metabolic and ecological data, and to explore novel bioactive compounds for industry (biofuel, plastic degradation, bioremediation, and antimicrobials etc) in line with Brazilian and international law and regulations, and as a means to support Brazil’s bioeconomy objectives.
With a PhD in a relevant subject (e.g. biodiversity science, phylogenomics, bioinformatics), the ideal candidate will be a team player and able to work confidently and independently on genomic data and other data collection and analysis, and the publication and presentation of results in high profile journals and symposia.
Specialist experience in genomic labwork and bioinformatics is essential, in addition to experience in the collection of samples for genomic analysis in the field, particularly in the tropics. The postholder will also need excellent verbal and written communication skills and a strong publication record. Student and visitor supervision may also be required as part of the role, and applicants should ideally have experience in training, supervising or mentoring, or be willing to develop their skills in this area.
Please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc.
Interviews will take place on Friday 2 May.
This role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
The salary for this position is £39,043 - £41,000 per annum (pro rata), depending on skills and experience.
Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking “Apply for this job”.
We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
No agencies please.