SRUC is unique in Scotland and one of the largest organisations of its kind in Europe. Our ambitious and exciting vision is to work at local, national and international levels, leading innovation and sustainable development in agriculture and rural sectors.

We are currently seeking to appoint a Post-Doctoral Researcher to work in a team exploring host genomic effects on the rumen microbiome associated with performance traits in bovines. The research is a BBSRC LINK funded project in collaboration with the Roslin Institute and the world leading breeding company Genus plc. The research will be based on our recently published research on the bovine microbiome (e.g. Roehe et al. 2016, PLOS Genetics; Auffret et al. 2017, Microbiome; Stewart et al., 2018, Nature Communications) which showed that rumen microbial genes are highly informative to predict feed conversion efficiency and methane emissions with high potential for implementation in genetic improvement programmes.

A PhD in a field related to Genetics, Bioinformatics and Microbiology is essential, as well as outstanding skills in statistical analyses are essential requirements. It is expected that the successful applicant has exceptional knowledge in at least one of the above mentioned sciences. The position is designed to enhance our leading research in host genetics and rumen microbiome associated with improved animal performance. This post is fixed term (3-years) in the first instance with the possibility of transfer to a permanent contract thereafter.

To have an informal discussion about this research position, contact Prof Rainer Roehe, Rainer.Roehe@sruc.ac.uk Tel +44 131 651 9367 or Prof Richard Dewhurst, Richard.Dewhurst@sruc.ac.uk Tel +44 (0)131 535 4050.