About this role
The role
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join Vengamanaidu Modepalli’s group to conduct research on the HFSP-funded project “Plant-like solar tracking in a photosymbiotic animal”. The project is for 3 years, and it is in collaboration with the Assoc. Prof. Katherina Petrou from the University of Technology Sydney, Australia. The successful candidate will work with the photosymbiotic sea anemone to uncover how endosymbiotic algae communicate with and influence host nervous systems. You will join a collaborative research environment with access to state-of-the-art molecular, aquarium, imaging, and omics facilities.
Project description:
Among marine invertebrates, many have formed mutualistic symbioses with photosynthetic partners, such as algae. In this relationship, the animal provides protection and nutrients, and in exchange, the algae provide energy through photosynthesis. This partnership is highly prevalent in corals and sea anemones, underpinning the productivity and biodiversity of coral reef ecosystems. Researchers have observed that marine animals living in symbiosis with photosynthetic algae, such as sea anemones, move in response to light (https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.250242).
While the survival of both organisms relies on a mutually beneficial partnership, little is known about their communication or the signal driving these intriguing light-driven behaviours. Our proposed research will explore the mechanisms that connect algal photosynthesis with animal behaviour. We will do this by investigating the host nervous system and the physiology and metabolism of the photosynthetic algae. We will conduct experiments to explain how photosynthetic partners influence the behaviour of their hosts in order to gain a new understanding of this fascinating process, providing new insights into the fundamentals of the photosymbiotic relationship in animals.
What will you be doing?
To plan and conduct lab and aquarium experiments in line with the main goals of the project To disseminate findings by presenting results at national and international conferences To prepare research manuscripts for publication To participate in outreach events
You should apply if
Essential Experience
Strong practical experience in at least one of the following:
Confocal or live-cell fluorescence imaging Molecular cloning and transgenesis Single-cell RNA sequencing or transcriptomic analyses Experience in marine invertebrate model systems.
Demonstrated ability to independently plan, execute, and analyse complex experiments.
Desirable Experience
A strong publication track record commensurate with career stage. Experience working with cnidarians, photosymbiosis, or host–algae interactions. Familiarity with neurophysiology, biosensors, or neuronal imaging. Skills in bioinformatics. Experience with animal behaviour assays.
Personal Qualities
Curiosity and enthusiasm for understanding fundamental biological mechanisms. Strong communication and teamwork skills within multidisciplinary environments.
Additional information
Contract type: Open-ended (fixed funding for 3 years)
This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Wednesday 18th March 2026
For informal queries please contact:
Dr Vengamanaidu Modepalli, Lecturer, via email: [email protected]
Our strategy and mission
We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.
The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.
Available documents
ACAD108469 - Research Associate - Job description.pdf Further Particulars_Faculty of Health & Life Sciences.pdf