Research Scientist

Applications are invited for a Research Scientist with a background in gut microbiome and intestinal biology to join the Food, Microbiome and Health Institute Strategic Programme at the Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB, Norwich, UK) to work on an QIB-led INFORM hub project aiming to develop the next generation of novel prebiotic ingredients. This is funded by BBSRC IAA (Impact Acceleration Account) University of Reading Grant for ‘‘Investigating the role of Functional foods and beverages to improve health and recovery (INFORM)’’. 

Background:

The ability to maintain intestinal homeostasis depends on complex interactions between the gut microbiota, the intestinal epithelium, and the host immune system. Disruption of the gut barrier through diet, pathogens or drugs can cause severe intestinal inflammation which may ultimately trigger pathologic conditions, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, infection, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, or obesity. Working with a leading innovator in the field of galactooligosaccharide (GOS) technology – Clasado Biosciences, this project will aim to identify specific GOS formulations that reduce inflammation through modulation of the gut microbiota and barrier function. This will be achieved using the cutting-edge model gut systems available at the Quadram Institute.

The role:

We are looking to hire an independent Research Scientist with a background in prebiotics, gut health or gut microbiology to work on an INFORM hub project aimed at identifying prebiotic ingredients targeting the leaky gut. The candidate will be based at the Quadram Institute to carry out fermentation assays using high throughput in vitro colon models and analyse the effect of GOS supplementation on human gut metagenome and metabolome. The effect on fermented GOS on gut barrier function will be tested using intestinal epithelium organoid-based models. The candidate will work closely with the academic and industrial partners.

The ideal candidate:

A PhD in Biological Sciences, previous experience working with in vitro gut models, prebiotics and the gut microbiome is essential and experience working with industrial partners would be advantageous.

Strong organisational and communication skills and the ability to work independently will be essential for this industry-partnered project. Experience of microbiome, host and carbohydrate interactions would be advantageous. The ideal candidate will have excellent organisational skills and a demonstrated ability to prioritise their workload and deliver work to deadlines. 

The successful candidate will benefit from a unique research environment and access to core facilities and expertise available at the QIB and opportunities for personal and career development.

Additional information:

Salary on appointment will be within the range £36,720 to £39,750 per annum depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time post for a contract of 6 months.

For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our website https://jobs.quadram.ac.uk or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004779. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply.  Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sectors of society.  The Institute supports equality of opportunity within the workplace and expects all employees to share and display these values.  To support our commitment, we have a range of family, faith and diversity friendly working arrangements to help all staff achieve excellence in their area of work.

As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. 

About the Quadram Institute:

The Quadram Institute is an interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to understanding how food and microbes interact to promote health and prevent disease. Its mission is to deliver healthier lives through innovation in gut health, microbiology and food. A partnership between Quadram Institute Bioscience, the University of East Anglia, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and BBSRC, it brings together scientists and clinicians in a state-of-the-art building on the Norwich Research Park. This is one of Europe’s largest centres of life sciences and home of the John Innes Centre and The Earlham Institute. (https://quadram.ac.uk/).

About the Clasado Biosciences:

Clasado is a leading biotechnology pioneer in the development of microbiome science, producing prebiotic ingredients and consumer products targeted at gastrointestinal health destined for the food and healthcare sectors.
The company is a leading innovator in the field of galactooligosaccaride (GOS) technology and is the exclusive manufacturer & supplier of the unique, patented Bimuno® - the world’s most advanced functional prebiotic ingredient, clinically proven to deliver a range of health benefits in the areas of digestive, travel and immune health. (www.clasado.com)

The closing date for applications will be 7 November 2024.

The Quadram Institute Bioscience is a registered charity (No. 1058499) and is an Equal Opportunities Employer.