Postdoctoral Research Associate in Phage Genomics & Host–Microbe Symbiosis

Queen Mary University of London is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Henry Lab on a prestigious Leverhulme Trust-funded research project investigating how horizontal gene transfer drives beneficial host–microbe symbioses.

Many animals depend on microbial partners for improved nutrition and protection against natural enemies. This project aims to uncover how bacteriophages and other mobile genetic elements contribute to the evolution of defensive bacterial symbionts in aphids, providing new insights into microbial evolution and symbiotic interactions.

The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research combining comparative genomics, evolutionary biology, molecular ecology, and experimental biology to understand how beneficial microbial traits emerge and spread across populations.

• Conduct independent research investigating bacteriophage‑mediated horizontal gene transfer in bacterial symbionts.
• Perform comparative and evolutionary genomic analyses.
• Develop and apply molecular techniques, including immunofluorescence and gene silencing.
• Characterize host–microbe interactions linking genomic diversity with ecological function.
• Collaborate with international research partners.
• Supervise a Leverhulme‑funded PhD student.
• Publish research findings in high‑impact scientific journals.
• Present research at national and international scientific conferences.
• Contribute to an inclusive and collaborative research environment.

Applicants should possess:

• A PhD (completed or nearing completion) in Evolutionary Biology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, Microbiology, or a closely related discipline.
• A publication record appropriate to career stage.
• Experience in one or more of the following:
  • Comparative Genomics
  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Phylogenetics
  • Molecular Biology
  • Host–Microbe Interactions
• Experience analyzing biological datasets using statistical and computational methods.
• Proficiency in R and/or Python.
• Excellent communication, analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience in any of the following will be advantageous:
  • Genome assembly and annotation
  • Comparative and evolutionary genomics
  • Fluorescence microscopy

For informal enquiries regarding the position, prospective applicants may contact:
Dr. Laurence Henry