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Research Fellow

UCL - Faculty of Life Sciences

Location: London, Hybrid
Salary: £43,981 to £52,586
Hours: Full Time
Contract Type: Permanent
Placed On: 28th August 2025
Closes: 25th September 2025
Job Ref: B02-09339

About us

The Faculty of Life Sciences is an exciting and dynamic environment driving forward ambitious and challenging plans for future development. We are committed to enhancing research and teaching in relation to major global challenges, including disease, climate change, sustainability, technological change and the data revolution, and inequality.

Biosciences is one of the world’s foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL, undertaking a significant amount of research and teaching. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Computational modelling approaches are frequently used alongside experimental research programmes and much of our research crosses traditional boundaries, including the relationship of biodiversity to the health of the planet. Activity is underpinned by high calibre science technology platforms and state of the art equipment. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.

The work of the van Dorp lab at UCL (https://www.ucl.ac.uk/~ucbpvan/) harnesses novel data sources, whole genome sequencing and advanced computational methods to unravel the evolutionary history and drivers of genetic diversity in major human and veterinary pathogens, both past and present.

About the role

We are seeking an enthusiastic, ambitious, and creative postdoctoral researcher with expertise in both wet-lab techniques and computational genomics to join the van Dorp lab at the UCL Genetics Institute. This UKRI-funded role will contribute to a cutting-edge project reconstructing the evolutionary drivers of zoonotic pathogens.

The successful candidate will join a dynamic, multidisciplinary team studying historic and ancient pathogen genomes—derived from archaeological, archival, and clinical materials—to uncover the adaptive evolution and transmission histories of infectious diseases. You will work with exceptional samples and datasets spanning both pre- and post-drug eras, including lineages that are now eradicated.

This is a fixed-term role until January 2028 in the first instance.

This role is eligible for hybrid working with a minimum of 60% on site.

If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please contact the HR Administrator.

About you

We are looking for someone with a PhD in genomics or a related field, with a track record of publishing in high-quality peer-reviewed journals. You should bring proven experience in microbial genomics alongside practical expertise in whole-genome sequencing data generation workflows. Strong computational analysis skills are essential, including proficiency in at least one programming language such as R, Python, or C/C++. The role requires a collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for working across disciplines.

You will work closely with Dr. van Dorp, taking a leading role in high-impact research projects in ancient DNA, microbial genomics, and pathogen evolution. You will have scope to develop your own research ideas, contribute to grant proposals, and supervise students if desired. We provide a stimulating, supportive environment that fosters independent thinking and career development, including support for fellowship applications.

Customer advert reference: B02-09339

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