Postdoctoral Researcher

John Innes Centre, Norwich; Norwich; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The John Innes Centre in Norwich invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Whitewoods Group. You will investigate molecular mechanisms that control palisade and spongy mesophyll cell identity and how these relate to leaf function.

A PhD in plant biology or related field is essential, with expertise in plant genetics and experience in molecular biology, confocal microscopy or leaf physiology. The role offers a 36-month, full-time contract and support for visa where required.

Qualifications

• PhD in plant biology or related field.
• Experience in plant genetics.
• Experience with molecular biology, confocal microscopy or leaf physiology.

Responsibilities

• Investigate molecular mechanisms that control palisade and mesophyll cell identity.
• Link cellular identity to leaf function.
• Collaborate with the Whitewoods Group and John Innes Centre teams.

Skills

Plant genetics

Team collaboration

Interpersonal skills

Education

PhD in plant biology

Tools

Confocal microscopy

Leaf physiology

Job description

Contract: 36 months, full-time

Location: John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK

Closing date: 25 June 2026

Reference: 1006243

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Whitewoods Group at the John Innes Centre.

About the John Innes Centre:

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial sciences. We nurture a creative, curiosity-led approach to answering fundamental questions in bioscience, and translate that knowledge into societal benefits. Our strategic vision, Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet, sets out our ambitious long-term goals for the game changing impact of our science globally.

Our employees enjoy access to state-of-the-art technology and a diverse range of specialist training opportunities, including support for leadership and management. Click here to find out more about working at the John Innes Centre.

About the Whitewoods Group:

The Whitewoods Group investigates how plants pattern their internal leaf structure, primarily using Arabidopsis thaliana as a model system. They investigate how leaves form air spaces between cells, how photosynthetic cells acquire their identities, and how changes in light level modify these developmental processes to tune leaf structure to the environment.

The role:

You will investigate molecular mechanisms that control palisade and spongy mesophyll cell identity and how these link to leaf function. A background in plant science with a PhD degree in plant biology or related fields is essential. Expertise in plant genetics is necessary, and experience with molecular biology, confocal microscopy or leaf physiology preferred, plus a willingness to work with new methodologies and different species.

The ideal candidate:

You are a strong team player, solution orientated and self-motivated. Excellent interpersonal skills are essential, alongside the ability to work independently and with others, with a high degree of accuracy including outstanding record keeping. Experience supervising students is preferred. This project can be tailored to the interests of the successful candidate. We are looking for someone with a strong sense of scientific curiosity and fun. Strong communication skills are essential.

Additional information:

The Whitewoods lab would like to encourage applications who wish to work flexibly or on a part time basis.

This role meets the criteria for a visa application. Where the successful applicant requires a visa, we will fund the costs for their visa and the Immigration Health Surcharge.

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 of 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.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

£39,000 to £46,500 per annum depending on qualifications and experience