Research and Innovation Fellow in Gut Microbiome Impact of Alternative Proteins (GutMAP)

Overview

The School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds is recruiting a Research and Innovation Fellow for a project funded by the National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC). NAPIC is a 38 million GBP centre, including 15 million GBP of UKRI investment, led by the Universities of Leeds, Sheffield, Imperial College London and the James Hutton Institute with more than 100 partners. Its aim is to make alternative proteins mainstream for a sustainable planet.

The project is called GutMAP. It combines in vitro models of the human colonic microbiota, small-scale human dietary interventions, analytical chemistry and culture-based and culture-independent measurement of the gut microbiome to assess how new and alternative proteins affect gut health. It will measure whether they change the make-up of the gut microbiota, influence production of beneficial metabolites such as short chain fatty acids and bile acids, and improve markers such as intestinal permeability and inflammation.

What you will do

The fellow will generate new data on the gut health properties of alternative proteins and, with other NAPIC researchers, help build a multi-functional database that AI and machine learning will use to predict links between protein properties and gut health outcomes. The aim is a model testing system to support a transition to low animal protein diets. The fellow will also help run workshops and outreach and carry out an independent research programme within an interdisciplinary team.

Requirements

Applicants should hold or be near completion of a PhD in microbiology, microbial ecology, biochemistry, biological sciences or a closely related discipline, with a strong background in the gut microbiome and functional foods, and a positive attitude to collaborative research. The post may be suitable for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, though first-time applicants might need to qualify for salary concessions, and eligibility under the Global Talent visa will also be considered.

What you get

The contract is full time and fixed term, on site, with a salary of 41,064 to 48,822 GBP per year depending on experience.

Key dates

The closing date is 29 October 2026.