Postdoctoral Research Associate(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Automotive Jobs
Uk
December 19, 2025
Full Time Permanent
Apply Now

Job Description

About the Project

This role is part of a European Research Council–funded programme focused on uncovering biological mechanisms linking the gut microbiome to brain and behavioural outcomes. You will work alongside neuroscientists and microbiologists across:

  • The Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics
  • The School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences
  • The School of Food and Nutritional Sciences

The host laboratory leads internationally recognised research into individual differences in brain and behaviour, with a particular interest in autism and mental health.

ERC-funded research aligns with UK government priorities around life sciences and innovation:
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-research-and-innovation

Your Role

As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will take a lead role in analysing complex biological datasets and contributing to high-quality research outputs.

You will:

  • Process and interpret gut microbiota and metabolomics data
  • Apply computational and statistical approaches to multi-modal biological datasets
  • Combine data across analytical levels using contemporary tools (e.g. mixomics, MaAsLin)
  • Use programming languages such as R and/or Python for data analysis
  • Contribute to manuscript preparation and peer-reviewed publications
  • Collaborate closely with researchers across disciplines
  • Participate actively in team meetings, knowledge exchange, and project dissemination

What We’re Looking For

You’ll be a strong fit if you bring:

  • A PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g. microbiology, neuroscience, bioinformatics, systems biology)
  • Proven experience analysing microbiome and/or metabolomics datasets
  • Familiarity with multi-omics integration tools and statistical workflows
  • Strong programming skills in R and/or Python
  • A publication record relevant to the field
  • An interest in interdisciplinary research linking biology, brain, and behaviour
  • Experience working with brain or behavioural data is welcome but not essential.

Visa & Right to Work Information

By reference to the applicable Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code, this role may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route, subject to meeting points-based criteria.

Applicants are encouraged to review official guidance before applying:

Skilled Worker visa overview:
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Right to work in the UK:
https://www.gov.uk/check-job-applicant-right-to-work

Working at the University of Reading

  • Supportive, research-active academic environment
  • Opportunities for professional development and interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Applications welcomed from external and internal candidates
  • Role may be considered on a secondment basis for existing staff (subject to approval)

Employment practices align with UK guidance on employment terms and conditions:
https://www.gov.uk/employment-contracts-and-conditions

Equality, Inclusion & Flexible Working

The University of Reading is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We proudly support:

  • The Athena SWAN Charter (gender equality)
  • The Race Equality Charter
  • LGBT+ inclusion
  • Disability Confident Employer status (Level 2)

Applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working arrangements are encouraged and will be considered in line with operational needs.

Interview Process

  • Interviews will be held on 9 February 2026
  • The process will include a relevant task provided during the interview

Why Join This Project?

This is an opportunity to contribute to internationally visible research at the intersection of microbiology and neuroscience—while developing advanced analytical skills and publishing impactful science in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Related Jobs