Postdoctoral Research Associate / Fellow

Overview

The University of Exeter is offering a full-time, fixed-term Postdoctoral Research Associate or Postdoctoral Research Fellow position within the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy. Funded by the BBSRC, the role is tied to a research project titled E-Prep II: Single and Combined Bacterial Infections Across Multiple Cropping Systems: Risks, Preparation and Mitigation. The position runs from January 4, 2027, until November 12, 2030, and is based on-site in the United Kingdom.

The project investigates the biology and risks of bacterial pathogens and planthopper vectors concerning UK food security. The work centers on the native reed planthopper and its transmission of Syndrome Bases Richesses, which currently affects European potato and sugar beet crops at epidemic levels. Responsibilities include biological, molecular, and bioinformatic evaluations, next-generation sequencing data analysis, DNA and RNA extraction, insect rearing, RNA interference, and contributions to the Bass lab.

Who can apply

Candidates for the Postdoctoral Research Associate level must hold a relevant PhD or be nearing completion, or possess equivalent qualifications and experience in a related academic field. Applicants need adequate knowledge of the discipline and relevant research methods to contribute to established programs. They must also be able to communicate complex information clearly and prepare funding applications.

Candidates for the Postdoctoral Research Fellow level must possess a relevant PhD or equivalent qualifications and experience in a related field. Applicants should be nationally recognized authorities in a related study area with specialist knowledge to design research programs. They are also expected to develop research objectives and proposals, identify funding sources, present at conferences and events, collaborate effectively, and supervise others.

What you get

The starting salary spans from £35,302 to £46,970 per annum, with starting pay determined by knowledge, skills, and experience. Specifically, the Postdoctoral Research Associate level ranges from £35,302 to £36,320 on Grade E, while the Postdoctoral Research Fellow level ranges from £44,352 to £46,970 on Grade F. Appointees receive the freedom and backing to pursue intellectual interests and conduct creative, cross-disciplinary research, alongside administrative and professional support from teams aligned with institutional research goals.

Key dates

The application advertising end date is November 15, 2026. The employment term officially begins on January 4, 2027, and concludes on November 12, 2030.