Senior Research Officer (Postdoctoral Research Associate)- Life Sciences

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

Job summary

A leading research institution in Colchester seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to the PlantPlug project. Ideal candidates will hold a PhD in relevant fields and possess strong experimental and communication skills. You will work on synthetic biology and collaborative research, optimizing plant systems and contributing to high-quality publications. This role offers a vibrant and supportive environment for academic growth.

Qualifications

• PhD (or near completion) in a related field required.
• Strong experimental skills in plant tissue culture, transformation, or related areas.
• Ability to design and execute independent research and analyze datasets.
• Proven publication record and effective communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Establish and optimize in-vitro mistletoe germination and propagation systems.
• Develop and implement genetic transformation strategies.
• Conduct host-integration and interspecies trait transfer assays.
• Drive experimental design and data analysis.

Skills

Plant tissue culture

Molecular cloning

Plant physiology

Developmental biology

Experimental design

Data analysis

Effective troubleshooting

Excellent communication

Teamwork

Initiative and leadership

Education

PhD in plant biology, molecular biology, synthetic biology, or related field

Job description

Overview

We are looking for an exceptional and driven Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join the visionary PlantPlug project, in the research group of Dr Pallavi Singh, School of Life Sciences at University of Essex. PlantPlug is an ARIA-funded initiative led by Dr Pallavi Singh that redefines the role of parasitic plants as programmable living biointerfaces. The successful candidate will work at the cutting edge of synthetic biology, developmental plant science, and interspecies communication, using mistletoe as a novel chassis for trait transfer between plants. The PDRA will help build and deliver the experimental and technical foundations of the project, from in-vitro mistletoe germination and propagation to genetic transformation and host-integration assays. The role is embedded within the Singh Lab and involves collaboration with researchers in plant synthetic biology, vascular signalling, and crop engineering. The role also offers opportunities to develop skills in project management, mentorship, grant writing, and applying for independent research funding, supporting the next stage of an academic or innovation-driven career.

The successful candidate will be based in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Essex, joining the Singh Lab, an interdisciplinary group focused on plant synthetic biology, developmental biology, and crop innovation. The lab conducts research on photosynthesis, root-shoot communication, and synthetic genomics and collaborates with UK and international partners across academia, industry, and innovation ecosystems.

Duties of the Role

• Establish and optimise in-vitro mistletoe germination and propagation systems.
• Develop and implement genetic transformation strategies.
• Conduct host-integration and interspecies trait transfer assays.
• Drive experimental design, data analysis, and technical innovation at the project's core.
• Lead the preparation and submission of at least two high-quality research manuscripts.
• Collaborate closely with national and international project partners.
• Contribute to lab management, mentoring junior researchers, and knowledge exchange.
• Engage in grant writing, project management, and the development of independent research ideas.

This is a rare opportunity to work at the cutting edge of synthetic biology, developmental plant science, and interspecies communication within a vibrant, supportive environment.

Skills and Qualifications Required

• A PhD (or near completion) in plant biology, molecular biology, synthetic biology, developmental biology, or a related field.
• Strong experimental skills in at least one of the following areas: plant tissue culture, transformation, molecular cloning, plant physiology, or developmental biology.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute independent research, analyse complex datasets, and troubleshoot effectively.
• A strong publication record (commensurate with career stage).
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate across disciplines.
• Motivation to take initiative, contribute to lab leadership, and drive project outputs.

Experience in parasitic plant biology, vascular signalling, or interspecies interactions would be advantageous but is not essential. This role offers a platform for developing both experimental and leadership skills, positioning the successful candidate for the next stage of an academic or innovation-driven career.

Application Process

1. A short online application form with the following two documents attached: a covering letter outlining how you meet the requirements of the role as set out in the person specification; a full curriculum vitae (CV) including publications and contact details for 2 referees.
2. Note: If selected for interview, referees will be contacted and asked for a reference.

Note: If selected for interview your referees will be contacted and asked for a reference.

At the University of Essex, internationalism and diversity are central to who we are. We are committed to being a cosmopolitan, internationally oriented university that welcomes staff and students from all countries, faiths, and backgrounds.

To support this commitment we have our Global Forum, a staff-led network that promotes cultural diversity among Essex staff, and our Colchester campus-based Faith Centre, which hosts regular services, meetings, and events organized by chaplains and faith representatives.

Please see the attached job pack, which contains a full job description and person specification outlining the full duties, skills, qualifications, and experience needed for this role, plus more information relating to the post. Applications should be made online. If you would like advice or help in making an application, or need information in a different format, please email [e-mail]