Postdoctoral Research Associate – Epigenetic Control of Giant Virus Endogenization at Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom

Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) is recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Dr Alex de Mendoza’s laboratory, based at QM London. This QMUL giant virus postdoc focuses on epigenetic control of giant virus endogenization. A PhD, or about to defend one, is stated as required. The closing date is 18 November 2026, 23:55 (UK time).

Job Details

Organization: Queen Mary University of London (QMUL)

Department: Department of Biology, School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Science & Engineering

Opportunity ID: 11817

Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate

Laboratory: Dr Alex de Mendoza’s laboratory

Location: QM London. Department of Biology, QMUL, Mile End, London, UK

Working Pattern: Full-time (35 hours per week, 1.0 FTE)

Contract: Fixed term for an initial 18 months (1.5 years), with the possibility of extension subject to funding

Salary: £39,187 – £45,174 per annum

Closing Date: 18 November 2026, 23:55 (UK time)

QMUL Giant Virus Postdoc Project Details

Building on the group’s ongoing work on giant virus endogenization in eukaryotes, the project will investigate the epigenetic control of giant virus endogenizations in animals. It will use cnidarian model systems to characterise the chromatin state of endogenised elements and aim to disrupt these states in order to reactivate recent endogenizations.

The QMUL giant virus postdoc project leverages laboratory experience in cnidarian epigenomics, comparative genomics and giant virus annotation and evolution.

Key Responsibilities

  • Performing comparative genomics.
  • Epigenome profiling and manipulation.
  • Preparing manuscripts for publication.
  • Opportunities to contribute to the supervision of students and to collaborate with international partners.

Eligibility Criteria for the Giant Virus Postdoctoral Position

  • A PhD, or about to defend one, in Genetics, Evolution, Biochemistry or a related field.
  • Experience with epigenomics and transposable elements.
  • Desirable: experience in omics data analysis and working with animal model systems.

Experience: Postdoctoral entry role – no minimum number of years is stated beyond the doctorate (Freshers eligible as recent doctorates, including candidates about to defend).

Required Skills

  • Strong communication and effective collaboration skills, with demonstrable outcomes.
  • Self-motivation, teamwork and excellent research-management skills.

Additional Information

Benefits: QMUL benefits include a generous pension scheme, 30 days’ leave per annum (pro-rata), a season ticket loan scheme, professional development opportunities and flexible, family-friendly working policies.

About the School

The School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences is one of the largest Schools within QMUL, with strong research output and a commitment to equality of opportunity (Silver Athena SWAN Award).

How to Apply

Informal enquiries: Dr Alex de Mendoza, Reader in Evolutionary Epigenomics ([email protected])

CLICK HERE FOR THE ORIGINAL NOTIFICATION / APPLY ONLINE

Last date to apply for the QMUL giant virus postdoc: 18 November 2026.