Jobs & Career
Postdoctoral Researcher – Computational Modelling of Epigenetic Dynamics | £37,500–£45,350 | Apply by 9 Nov 2025
Institution: John Innes Centre (JIC), Norwich, UK
Department: Computational and Systems Biology
Position: Full-time | 36-month fixed term
Salary Range: £37,500 – £45,350 per annum (Grade SC6)
Hours per Week: 37
Closing Date: 9 November 2025
Interview Date: 20 November 2025
Expected Start Date: 1 January 2026
Project Title: Computational Modelling of Epigenetic Dynamics
🌍 About the Opportunity
The John Innes Centre (JIC) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join Professor Martin Howard’s group in the Department of Computational and Systems Biology. This is a three-year, full-time position focused on developing computational models of epigenetic dynamics in the Polycomb system — a key process in gene regulation and plant development.
The successful candidate will collaborate closely with Professor Rob Klose’s experimental group at the University of Oxford, combining theory and experiment to explore how epigenetic memory states are established and maintained.
This prestigious postdoctoral opportunity is ideal for candidates with a background in theoretical physics, biomathematics, or computational biology who want to apply their expertise to cutting-edge biological questions.
🧪 Key Responsibilities
- Design and perform computational modelling to meet the project’s scientific objectives.
- Publish research findings in leading international journals and present results at conferences.
- Collaborate with experimental biologists to interpret data and refine theoretical frameworks.
- Ensure all research adheres to best scientific practices, data integrity, and ethical standards.
- Support group operations by supervising visiting researchers, assisting in training, and contributing to a culture of excellence.
- Engage in professional development, staying current with the latest techniques and innovations in computational biology.
🎓 Essential Qualifications and Skills
Education:
- PhD (awarded or near completion within 6 months) in Theoretical Physics, Bio-Mathematics, or Computational Biology
- BSc or equivalent degree in a relevant scientific field
Core Skills:
- Strong background in theoretical physics or applied mathematics
- Proven ability to apply quantitative models to biological systems
- Demonstrated interest in molecular and cellular biology
- Proficiency with computational tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or similar)
Desirable:
- Previous experience in biological modelling
- Track record of scientific publications and presentations
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills, enabling productive collaboration with experimental groups
🧠 Department of Computational and Systems Biology
The Computational and Systems Biology Department at JIC is globally recognized for its research excellence in plant and microbial sciences. Its work spans:
- Mathematical and statistical modelling of biological systems
- Mechanistic analysis of pattern formation, transport dynamics, and gene networks
- Bioinformatics, software development, and statistical support for experimental projects
The department fosters interdisciplinary collaborations, bringing together theorists and experimentalists to solve complex biological problems that drive agricultural and environmental innovation.
🔬 About the Howard Group
Professor Martin Howard’s research group integrates mathematical modelling, statistical physics, and biophysics to decode complex biological processes. Current research focuses on:
- Epigenetic memory systems, including histone modification and DNA methylation
- Pattern formation dynamics in cellular systems, such as meiotic crossover positioning
The team collaborates internationally, leveraging interdisciplinary insights to explain biological complexity through simple, predictive models.
💼 Candidate Profile
Ideal candidates will:
- Be creative, self-driven, and analytically rigorous
- Have excellent communication and presentation skills
- Be comfortable working both independently and collaboratively
- Demonstrate strong time management and organizational abilities
- Be open to travel for research collaborations and international conferences
🌟 Why Join the John Innes Centre?
The John Innes Centre (JIC) is one of the world’s premier institutes for plant and microbial genetics, driving innovation through interdisciplinary science and global partnerships.
What JIC Offers:
- A diverse, inclusive, and international research environment
- Access to state-of-the-art computational and laboratory facilities
- Visa sponsorship and relocation support for international researchers
- Athena SWAN Gold Award for gender equality
- Member of the Stonewall Diversity Champion Programme
- Disability Confident Employer—guaranteed interviews for qualified applicants with disabilities
📨 How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by 9 November 2025.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews on 20 November 2025, with the successful applicant expected to start on 1 January 2026. Use the link below!
For application details or visa inquiries, contact:
📧 nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk
📞 +44 (0)1603 450888
📋 Quick Summary
| Position | Postdoctoral Researcher |
|---|---|
| Project | Computational Modelling of Epigenetic Dynamics |
| Location | Norwich, United Kingdom |
| Institution | John Innes Centre |
| Salary | £37,500 – £45,350 |
| Contract Length | 36 months |
| Closing Date | 9 November 2025 |
| Start Date | 1 January 2026 |
| Visa Sponsorship | Available |
| Interview Date | 20 November 2025 |
🚀 Final Thoughts
This Postdoctoral Researcher position at the John Innes Centre offers a rare opportunity to advance your career at the interface of theoretical modelling and experimental biology. If you are passionate about computational biology, epigenetics, and interdisciplinary research, this is your chance to join one of the most respected research institutes in the world.
Apply today and become part of a collaborative community that’s shaping the future of biological science.
