Graduate Research Assistant
There are three full-time posts available from 1 February 2027. These posts are offered as a fixed term contract and funded by Novo Nordisk Foundation until 31 January 2029. In line with the University’s fair employment for all principles, any further funding opportunities identified will be reviewed and discussed during the contract.
The starting salary will be from £33,951 on Grade E, depending on knowledge, skills and experience.
The role
The University of Exeter is seeking several highly motivated Graduate Research Assistants to contribute to a landmark £16 million UK Biobank epigenetics project that will generate DNA methylation data from 60,000 participants, creating one of the most important resources ever developed for understanding how genes and the environment interact to influence human health and disease. Working within a dynamic and collaborative research environment, you will help generate large-scale DNA methylation data that will support discoveries in dementia, cancer, cardiovascular disease, mental health, ageing and many other major health conditions.
What you'll do
- Perform laboratory procedures supporting high-throughput DNA methylation profiling.
- Prepare and quality-control samples for DNA methylation array analysis.
- Contribute to laboratory workflow development and optimisation.
- Maintain rigorous sample tracking and laboratory records.
- Work alongside leading researchers in epigenomics, genomics and bioinformatics.
- Help generate data that will be used by researchers worldwide.
What we're looking for
We are seeking enthusiastic scientists with a strong interest in molecular biology, genomics or biomedical research. Previous lab experience is desirable, but we are also seeking individuals with excellent organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to work effectively in a team.
The successful applicant will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically and prepare proposals and applications to external bodies.
Applicants will be educated to first degree level or possess an equivalent qualification/ experience in a related field of study or equivalent experience and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes.
Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.
What we offer
- The opportunity to work on a globally significant scientific programme.
- Training in state-of-the-art genomic and epigenomic technologies.
- Experience of large-scale biobank and population genomics research.
- A supportive and collaborative research environment.
- Excellent opportunities for career development in genomics, biotechnology and biomedical research.
Why Exeter?
The University of Exeter is home to internationally leading research in genomics, epigenetics and data science. You will join a team at the forefront of efforts to understand how genetic and environmental factors shape human health, working alongside national and international partners across academia, healthcare and industry.
Help build a resource that will transform our understanding of human disease for decades to come.
Transform Your Career and Help Shape a Greener, Healthier, and Fairer Future
Join the University of Exeter, a top 200 Russel Group university (QS & THE World University Rankings 2025), excelling in teaching (triple Gold rating, TEF 2023) and leading groundbreaking research in the beautiful southwest of England.
We are committed to understanding different cultures and perspectives, supporting diverse leadership, and striving for social justice. We encourage applications from all groups underrepresented in our community, including racially minoritised individuals and those with disabilities. Our inclusive, merit based recruitment processes seek to embrace a diverse set of experiences to ensure colleagues feel supported equitably. With over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 140 countries, we foster a culture where everyone can thrive.
You can read more about our current accreditations and commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here, including our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant.
What we can offer you:
- Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines;
- Support teams that understand the University wide teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly;
- An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics providing specialist support for external engagement and development;
- Our Exeter Academic initiative supports high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career;
- A multitude of staff benefits including sector leading benefits around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay), and a Fertility Treatment Policy;
- A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon/Cornwall.
How we can help
If you are considering applying and need support to do so, please get in touch with us at
[email protected]. You can request reasonable adjustments within your application or by contacting us. You can also choose to be considered under our Disability Confident Scheme and find out here how this is managed during our recruitment and onboarding process.
