Postdoctoral Research Associate in Plant Molecular Biology

Durham University; Barnard Castle; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Durham University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Plant Molecular Biology. The role focuses on RNA biology and epigenetics of transposable elements, requiring strong academic experience and collaboration skills. The position is fixed-term for three years, commencing from 01/08/25, and contributes to a BBSRC-funded project.

Qualifications

• PhD or nearing submission in Plant Molecular Biology.
• Experience in academic research with publication readiness.
• Ability to present at conferences and communicate complex information.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research aligned with BBSRC project objectives.
• Contribute to project advancement through research ideas and protocols.
• Work closely with the PI and group members.

Skills

Teamwork

Independent Research

Interpersonal Skills

Communication

Education

PhD in Plant Molecular Biology

First degree in Biology

Job description

The Role

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Plant Molecular Biology with a particular emphasis on RNA biology and the epigenetics of transposable elements in Arabidopsis. The research project, funded by BBSRC, will investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the initiation of epigenetic silencing in plant transposable elements. Towards this goal, the study will employ a broad range of experimental approaches, spanning plant molecular biology and high-throughput sequencing technologies. The successful applicant will be expected to lead independent research aligned with the objectives of the BBSRC-funded project and work closely with the PI, Dr Jungnam Cho, and his group members.

This post is fixed term for three years. The funding is available from 01/08/25 for this fixed period only.

The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1st September 2025.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

Qualifications

1. A good first degree in Biology.
2. A PhD (or be close to submission) in Plant Molecular Biology or a related subject.

Experience

• Experience in conducting high quality academic research.
• Demonstrable ability to write material of a quality commensurate with publication in highly-ranked journals.
• Demonstrable ability to present research papers atinternationalconferences and communicate complex information to specialists and within the wider academic community.

Skills

• Demonstrable ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings.
• Ability to work independently on own initiative and to strict deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Desirable Criteria

Experience

• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, commensurate with stage of career.
• Experience inbioinformatics and high-throughput sequencing data analyses.

Skills

• Demonstrable ability to plan and manage independent research.

Contact Information

Department contact for academic-related enquiries

Dr Jungnam Cho, Associate Professor,

When appointing to this role the University must ensure that it meets any applicable immigration requirements, including salary thresholds which are applicable to some visas.