Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Minderoo Centre for Technology and Democracy; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Cambridge is seeking a post-doctoral research associate in Presymbiotic Signalling. The role involves investigating the relationship between nutrient and symbiosis signalling in rice using advanced technologies. Candidates should have a solid background in plant genetics and bioinformatics skills. Applications close on 14 September 2025.

Qualifications

• Solid background in plant genetics and genomics.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics for large data analysis.
• Available knowledge in plant physiology would be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the interplay between nutrient and symbiosis signalling at cellular resolution in rice.

Skills

Plant genetics

Bioinformatics for large data analysis

Plant physiology knowledge

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Job description

Overview

Applications are invited for a post-doctoral research associate in Presymbiotic Signalling to work with Prof Uta Paszkowski at the Crop Science Centre, starting between 1 October and 1 November 2025.

The beneficial interaction of plants with endomycorrhizal fungi commences via mutual recognition in the rhizosphere. We identified a receptor complex that is required for perception of beneficial fungi by plants (Gutjahr, Gobbato et al., Science 2015; Choi et al., Nat Commun 2020), and also for plant development. Recent data suggest that this signalling pathway integrates plant nutrient status with the competence to engage with the beneficial fungi, integrating systemic and local signalling cues. In the projected work, a set of single cell technologies will be used to investigate the interplay between nutrient and symbiosis signalling at cellular resolution in rice.

Qualifications

• Solid background in plant genetics and genomics.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics for large data analysis.
• Available knowledge in plant physiology would be advantageous.

How to apply

To apply, please email a CV, publications list, a CHRIS/6 (parts I and III only) and the names and contact details (including email addresses) of 3 referees to Prof Paszkowski at [e-mail]. More information and forms can be found at: http://www.plantsci.cam.ac.uk/jobs/index.html

Important dates and terms

The closing date for applications is 14 September 2025.

This appointment is subject to a health assessment. The University determines whether an outcome is satisfactory. The University values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 25 months in the first instance.

Application process and equal opportunity

Click the Apply button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online. If you have not received any response 1 month after the closing date you should consider your application to be unsuccessful. Please quote reference PD47193 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.