Postdoctoral Researcher

The John Innes Centre (JIC); Norwich; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading plant science research institute in England is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on gene editing in sugar beet. This role involves collaboration with external partners and developing skills in project management, tissue culture, and molecular biology. The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Plant Science with experience in gene editing techniques. This position offers a stimulating research environment committed to inclusivity and diversity.

Benefits

State-of-the-art technology

Diverse training opportunities

Support for leadership and management

Family-friendly workplace

Inclusivity and diversity initiatives

Qualifications

• Good knowledge of plant gene editing techniques.
• Demonstrable experience in gene editing, crop transformation, and molecular biology.
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Work towards gene editing in sugar beet.
• Collaborate with external partners.
• Develop skills in project management, tissue culture, and molecular biology.

Skills

Knowledge of plant gene editing techniques

Experience in gene editing

Experience in crop transformation

Molecular biology

Project management

Education

PhD in Plant Science or equivalent

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Penfield Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting‑edge science in the field of gene editing in sugar beet.

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 Penfield Group:

The Penfield Group works to understand the effects of seasonal changes in temperature on plant reproductive development. We work with the model species Arabidopsis and arable crops to understand how weather and climate variation affect reproductive development, crop yield and quality. We have a particular focus on exploiting gene editing for sustainable agriculture in non‑cereal crops.

The role:

The Postdoctoral Researcher will work towards gene editing in sugar beet. The post will work closely with a strong team of external collaborators and will provide the opportunity to develop skills in public‑private partnerships. The candidate will also develop skills in project management, tissue culture, molecular biology and crop transformation.

The ideal candidate:

You will have a PhD in Plant Science or equivalent. The post holder will have good knowledge of plant gene editing techniques and will have some demonstrable experience in gene editing, crop transformation and molecular biology. The ideal candidate is capable of working independently but enjoys operating as part of a collaborating team to reach project goals.

Additional information:

We welcome applications from candidates seeking job‑share, part‑time or other flexible working arrangements.

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be addressed to Professor Steven Penfield.

This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Where the successful applicant requires a visa, we will fund the costs for their visa and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.

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.

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