Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed term)

We are seeking a Research Associate/Fellow to take a leading research role in a BBSRC funded research project entitled “Quantitative metabolomics for prediction of lameness and elucidation of related mechanistic pathways in dairy cattle”, a project to be conducted in collaboration with the School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham.

This innovative project will utilise untargeted quantitative metabolomics and machine learning to address one of the highest priority diseases of dairy cattle; lameness. This project, will for the first time, develop algorithms to predict lameness at an early stage in first lactation dairy cows and uncover underlying mechanistic pathways using data generated from metabolomic analysis of biofluids. The use of AI and machine learning methods will enable sophisticated predictive models to be developed, identifying significant metabolites associated with lameness. Predictive models will be the building blocks for development of early prediction and detection methods for lameness and lesions causing lameness. Identification of significant metabolites and investigation of associated mechanistic pathways will address fundamental knowledge gaps that exist relating to the pathogenesis of lameness. The findings from this project will offer an opportunity for a step-change in the way that lameness is detected and managed; through tools for early prediction of lameness and improvements in management based on a better understanding of mechanistic pathways.

The successful applicant will join a friendly, highly motivated and successful Ruminant Population Health research group with wide research connections throughout the School. The post will be primarily research focused (90%) with limited but some teaching and administrative duties. This role provides an exciting opportunity and will involve working directly with dairy cattle, including leading on the organisation and collection of samples, as well leading the implementation of metabolomics and data analytic phases of the project. Collaboration with current research teams and projects will be essential.

In addition to the online application form candidates should submit a CV which gives details of academic qualifications, including class of first degree, a career summary and a full list of publications.

This post is available on a fixed term contract until 31/08/2026. Hours of work are full time (36.25 hours). Job share arrangements maybe considered.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Laura Randall, email laura.randall@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

It is a condition of this post that satisfactory enhanced disclosure is obtained from the 'Disclosure and Barring Service'.

Further details:

View Additional Information (this will open a new window)

Our University is a supportive, inclusive, caring and positive community. We warmly welcome those of different cultures, ethnicities and beliefs – indeed this very diversity is vital to our success, it is fundamental to our values and enriches life on campus. We welcome applications from UK, Europe and from across the globe. For more information on the support we offer our international colleagues, see our Moving to Nottingham pages.

For successful international applicants, we provide financial support for your visa and the immigration health surcharge, plus an interest-free loan to help cover the cost of immigration-related expenses for any dependants accompanying you to the UK. For more information please see the our webpage on Financial support for visas and the immigration health surcharge.

Advert information