Post-doctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Genomics of Polyploids
Post-doctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Genomics of Polyploids
We are seeking a highly motivated post-doctoral researcher to play a key role in helping to deliver an exciting new 4-year multi-partner BBSRC research project focused on understanding genome evolution following whole genome duplication (WGD, i.e. polyploidy) events across the Tree of Life (please see rediploidisation.org).
The RBG Kew post will contribute towards the ambitious scientific objectives of this consortium by applying cutting-edge comparative genomic tools (many developed as part of the consortium) to analyse the growing number of chromosome-level genome assemblies and hence reconstruct the genetic and functional changes following WGD events across diverse taxa. At RBG Kew the initial focus will be on analysing genomes across the plant tree of life, but there will be opportunities to expand to other eukaryotic groups, including fungi.
There will be extensive opportunities to collaborate with the many other members and collaborators across the consortium (e.g. through secondments to other institutions, regular consortium meetings etc.), providing opportunities to build and share expertise.
More details
To contribute to delivering the overarching goals of the consortium, we are seeking a researcher with extensive bioinformatic experience in:
(i) Using comparative genomic approaches for analysing large genomic datasets (including chromosome-level genome assemblies),
(ii) Analysing complex non-model genomic data, to explore the genomic signatures of genome evolution following WGD.
Other essential criteria for this post include:
- PhD in relevant discipline of biology
- Demonstrated interest in genome evolution
- Proven track record in publishing research results in high quality peer-reviewed scientific journals
- Experience in presenting research to the wider-scientific community and stakeholders,
both at scientific conferences and workshops, as well as to the broader public.
Brief overview of the BBSRC sLoLa Consortium
This job sits within a 48-month multi-partner research project funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) via their sLoLa (Strategic Longer and Larger) grant scheme (see rediploidisation.org). Starting in April 2025, this £5.3M project aims to understand the genetic origins and consequences of evolutionary novelty generated through WGDs across the Tree of Life. The project is led by The University of Edinburgh (Roslin Institute), and, in addition to RBG Kew, includes the following UK partners: University of Oxford, University of Bristol, University of Bath, Wellcome Sanger Institute, and international collaborators based at leading research organisations in Ireland, the Netherlands, Japan and Spain.
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 are likely to be during the first few weeks of March.
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 £40,926 - £42,945 per annum (pro rata), depending on skills and experience [Band D]
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.