Postdoctoral Researcher

Funding End Date 30 Jun 2031 Hours per week 37 Project Title Identification of polarity determining factors in C4 bundle sheath cells Expected/Ideal Start Date 01 Aug 2026 Months Duration 36 Closing date 15 June 2026

Job Description Main Purpose of the Job

Postdoctoral Researchers work with limited supervision to carry out individual and collaborative research projects relevant to the overall needs of the research programme.

Key Relationships

Internal: Line manager (Tina Schreier), group members and, as necessary, other researchers, research support staff and students across the Institute. External: Collaborators

Main Activities & Responsibilities

Percentage Identify, plan, carry out and modify experiments to meet the objectives of the project 60
Prepare results, reports and manuscripts for publication in leading scientific journals and other relevant media 10
Collaborate with colleagues (group members and collaborators) in the development of original and world class research, including contributing to research proposals and grant applications 5
Participate in the supervision of the group's students, providing advice and demonstrating experimental techniques 5
Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, Scientific Integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements 5
Contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, supervision of visitors to the laboratory and assisting with training others, encouraging scientific excellence 5
Continually strive for excellence, seeking out and acting on feedback and relevant learning and development opportunities 5
As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, for example, contributing to the work of Institute committees 5
Disseminate research findings through presentations to various audiences at internal, national and international meetings

Person Profile Education & Qualifications

Requirement Importance PhD (full award or expected within 6 months) or equivalent in plant biology or a related discipline Essential
BSc or equivalent in biology or biochemistry Essential

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

Requirement Importance In depth knowledge of plant biology (with focus of expertise in plant biochemistry OR plant cell biology) Essential
Extensive knowledge of protein protein interaction analysis, and experience demonstrated through prior research experience and publication track record Essential
Experience and knowledge in molecular cloning techniques Essential
Experience in proximity labelling techniques Essential
Knowledge and experience in plasmodesmata OR chloroplast research Desirable
Experience in working with monocot crops (preferably maize or sorghum) Desirable

Requirement Importance Experience of supervising, training and mentoring visitors and students Essential
Demonstrated ability to perform research and develop novel ideas in the area of plant molecular biology Essential
Experience in the isolation and characterisation of transgenic lines Essential
Experience of oral research presentations Desirable
Preparing data / information for grant proposals Desirable
Proven record in scientific writing Desirable

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Requirement Importance Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to present complex information with clarity Essential
Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a team Essential
Demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills Essential
Excellent time management and organisational skills Essential
Ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders Essential
Ability to follow instructions/Standard Operating Procedures Essential
Promotes and strives for continuous improvement Essential

Additional Requirements

Requirement Importance Promotes equality and values diversity Essential
Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work Essential
Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute Essential
Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate Essential
Willingness to work outside standard working hours when required Essential
Ability to undertake occasional travel (national and international) related to collaborations and/or seminars Essential
Attention to detail Essential

Benefits and EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity. As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall's Diversity Champions programme.

Job Title: Postdoctoral Researcher

Salary: £37,500 - £45,350 per annum depending on qualifications and experience

Contract: 36 months, full time

Location: John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK

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