Senior Research Associate in Bacterial Evolution

The role

We are seeking an exceptional computational researcher to work on open problems in plasmid evolution. The field of defence systems has rapidly become one of the most exciting areas of biology, but most work has focused on their effects against phage – plasmids have been neglected.

You’ll analyse plasmids & defence systems in combination to address key questions in bacterial evolution, including plasmid-host associations, how gene function relates to genomic location, and the rates at which plasmids diversify. This role is funded for at least 3.5 years by an ERC grant, meaning you’ll have time to take risks in your research and gain the skills you need to develop your own future career. You’ll join the newly-established research group of Dr. Liam Shaw at the University of Bristol (shawlab.uk) giving you the opportunity of close supervision and support. From day one you’ll receive mentoring and career development, such as drafting your own fellowship applications (or alternative support to suit your interests).

Additional document request when applying: In addition to the standard requested documents through our online application process (CV, cover letter), we would like you to also include the following:

• On a single A4 page, please list up to 3 papers/projects you have been or are involved in & detail your contribution to each one in a short paragraph.

What will you be doing?

There is a lot we don’t know about how defence systems and plasmids interact. You’ll apply existing computational tools to analyse their relationship across large datasets, including both reference genomes & the >2.4m genomes in AllTheBacteria. The role will also involve development of new computational tools to uncover novel biology, with the potential of future experimental collaborations to validate hypotheses.

Our initial aim is to build statistical models that relate defence systems and plasmids across bacterial diversity, using approaches from host-pathogen ecology to produce a broad-scale picture of their relationship that we can then build on. Another goal is to develop computational frameworks that quantify the evolution of plasmids undergoing genomic rearrangements. These will then be combined with tools to predict functions of plasmid proteins, the majority of which are currently unknown, and to explore the implications for the spread of antibiotic resistance. However, research can go in unexpected directions, and you’ll get the chance to shape these priorities as your work progresses. By leading on this work, you’ll be in an excellent place to build an independent academic career.

You should apply if

• You have a PhD in bacterial evolution/genomics or a related subject, or equivalent research experience.
• You have experience and/or interest in computational research, plasmids, defence systems, evolutionary theory, AMR – and are excited about combining these together for your future research career.
• You have a proven track record of high-quality research, publication & communication, as well as collaborating with others in a team.
• You enjoy taking the lead in your research to find out new things about bacterial evolution.

If you’re an exceptional candidate with expertise outside bacterial evolution looking to transition into the field, you are encouraged to apply if you can demonstrate your skills are a good fit. 

Additional information

Interviews are likely to be held in week commencing Monday 11th May 2026.

For informal queries please contact: Dr Liam Shaw, Research Fellow via email: liam.shaw@bristol.ac.uk

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