Research Associate - Reprogramming Development (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Cambridge is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate. This role involves engineering auxin dynamics in plants as part of a collaborative project. The ideal candidate should possess a PhD in a relevant field and have a strong foundation in molecular biology. The position is fixed-term for 2 years, with a focus on innovative research and a supportive environment.

Benefits

Family-friendly benefits

Development opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of auxin biology, plant development, and structural biology.
• Experience with confocal imaging and image analysis.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Engineer changes to auxin dynamics using novel biosensors.
• Work collaboratively within an international research consortium.
• Communicate scientific findings effectively.

Skills

Molecular biology

Gene cloning

Protein engineering

FACS

CRISPR editing

Education

PhD in Plant Biology or related field

Tools

Golden-gate cloning

RNAseq

Job description

Overview

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Dr Alexander Jones' Group at the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University. The aim of this position is to reprogram auxin patterns in plants to reveal the functions of specific cellular and subcellular auxin pools.

Project context

The plant hormone auxin is a molecular signal that somehow weaves disparate cells, tissues and organs into the patterns of plant development. This post takes the critical step of engineering changes to auxin dynamics revealed using novel FRET biosensors engineered by the Jones group. This will involve precise redistribution of auxin in space and time using existing tools and developing entirely new ones. The role is part of the ERC-funded STARMORPH project, and the post holder will join an international consortium to unravel SpatioTemporal Auxin Redistribution for Morphogenesis using the apical hook as developmental model. If successful, this role will illuminate the threads of auxin mediated morphogenesis while also delivering advanced gene regulation switches for all fields.

For more information, please see a recent talk by Dr. Jones on YouTube (from 1hr30min to 2hrs of the video) and consult the Jones team website (https://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/research/jones-group).

Qualifications and experience

• Applicants must have or be close to obtaining a PhD in Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Synthetic Biology or related field.
• A solid foundation in molecular biology and in particular gene cloning is strictly required, alongside a willingness and ability to learn and work with new methodologies.
• We particularly welcome candidates with advanced knowledge of, and a proven track record in, any of the following techniques and concepts: protein and promoter engineering, FACS, Golden-gate cloning, RNAseq, and CRISPR editing.
• Additional techniques that would be of value include directed evolution, robotics-assisted screening, transient expression in leaves or protoplasts, and Arabidopsis thaliana transformation and husbandry.
• Proficiency in auxin biology, plant development, structural biology, and confocal imaging and image analysis would also be valuable to the role.

Role and expectations

The successful applicant will be a creative scientist who is solution orientated and self-motivated. Excellent interpersonal skills and record keeping are essential, alongside the ability to work both independently and in teams. The Jones group seeks a person excited about a collaborative, diverse and interdisciplinary team. Solid communication skills are required to interact with team members with different backgrounds. Candidates should also demonstrate a history of science communication (e.g. presentations, outreach activities, teaching).

Benefits and environment

The Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment with a wide range of family-friendly benefits and development opportunities. More about the Sainsbury Laboratory and details of what the University offers to employees can be found at: http://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/

Contract details

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Application process

Please upload a copy of your full CV including a list of publications, and a cover letter highlighting your suitability for the position and contact information of three referees. Scientific enquiries should be directed to Dr Jones at [e-mail]. Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online. For questions regarding the application process, please email [e-mail]. Please quote reference PT47290 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Equality and eligibility

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.