Senior/ Research Associate in Plant Biochemistry

Lancaster University; Bailrigg; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Lancaster University’s Plant Biochemistry group invites applications for a researcher to investigate Rubisco activity in recombinant proteins, both in vitro and in planta. You will lead molecular and biochemical studies of novel Rubisco variants, and drive physiological characterisation of transgenic plants, working closely with Lancaster Photosynthesis team.

The role offers access to state-of-the-art facilities, a supportive environment, and opportunities for professional development as part of

Qualifications

• Experience in plant biochemistry and Rubisco-related research.
• Ability to design and execute in vitro and in vivo experiments.
• Strong data analysis and manuscript preparation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead in vitro and in vivo studies to understand Rubisco activity.
• Investigate molecular and biochemical properties of Rubisco variants.
• Characterise physiology of plants expressing Rubisco proteins.
• Design and perform experimental and computational work; analyse data.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Biochemical assays

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Tools

Radiation facilities

HEC cluster

Job description

This new position will join the Plant Biology grouping within the Lancaster Environment Centre, which consists of roughly 35 people including PIs, postdoctoral researchers, research technicians and postgraduate students.
This is part of a BBSRC-funded project that focuses on improving our understanding of Rubisco activity, and pursuing a novel target for increasing Rubisco activity in plants and cyanobacteria. This project is in collaboration with Prof. Martin Cann at Durham University. At Lancaster we will focus on understanding Rubisco activity of recombinant proteins in vitro, and testing these in planta to understand the impact of mutations on leaf level photosynthesis.
The ideal candidate for this position in Plant Biochemistry will have a genuine interest and the curiosity to pursue new research avenues in Rubisco. With training and support, you will be responsible for leading in vitro and in vivo research to advance the understanding of Rubisco activity. You will lead the molecular and biochemical study of novel Rubisco variants to build fundamental understanding, and lead the physiological characterisation of plants expressing these proteins. You will design and carry out experimental and computational work, analyse data, present results in oral and written form and lead the preparation of scientific manuscripts.
You will join the collaborative and supportive Lancaster Photosynthesis team and have access to state-of-the-art resources, including a well-equipped lab for plant molecular biology and biochemistry work using ionising radiation, high-specification plant growth chambers, and the Lancaster High End Computing (HEC) Cluster. Professional development opportunities and training courses to broaden your expertise and skills will be encouraged and are covered by the project.
Individuals from all diversity groups are encouraged to apply. LEC offers a collegial and stimulating environment for career development, based on departmental values and embedded Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) considerations and actions. We are committed to family-friendly and flexible working policies on an individual basis, as well as the Athena SWAN Charter, which recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address gender equality in higher education and research. Furthermore, we are active and progressive around sustainability, wellbeing and social justice agendas.
Timeframe:
This position is available for immediate start, with candidates ideally available to start by early 2027, however this is negotiable.
You will join us on an indefinite contract however the role remains contingent on external funding. This position will initially have an end date of 30/08/2028, with the possibility for extension.
We anticipate interviews will be held within 3 weeks of the closing date, with decisions communicated 1-2 weeks after the interview date.