Main Purpose of the Job

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the group of Dr. Myriam Charpentier at the John Innes Centre (JIC) to study molecular processes in root legume endosymbioses signalling.

The overall aim of the project is to characterize a key novel signalling process that enabled arbuscular mycorrhiza and nitrogen fixing bacteria to colonize plants. This research will expand on our recent discovery of a novel positive regulator of endosymbioses signalling. The successful applicant will be able to creatively explore the function of this regulator at the interface of both arbuscular mycorrhiza and nitrogen fixing bacteria colonization.

Key Relationships

Candidate will assist in the supervision of students

Main Activities & Responsibilities

Identify, plan, carry out and modify experiments to meet the objectives of the project

Prepare results, reports and manuscripts for publication in leading scientific journals and other relevant media

Disseminate research findings through presentations to various audiences at internal, national and international meetings

Collaborate with colleagues within the Institute in the development of original and world-class research, including contributing to research proposals and grant applications

Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, Scientific Integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements

Contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, supervision of visitors to the laboratory and assisting with training others, encouraging scientific excellence

Continually strive for excellence, seeking out and acting on feedback and relevant learning and development opportunities

As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, for example, contributing to the work of Institute committees

Liaise with industry and other external stakeholders

Education & Qualifications

Requirement

Importance

PhD (full award or expected within 6 months) or equivalent in Plant microbe interactions, Plant signalling or Plant proteomics or related discipline

Essential

BSc or equivalent in Plant microbe interactions, Plant signalling or Plant proteomics

Desirable

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

Requirement

Importance

Previous experience in standard molecular technics (e.g. GoldenGate, genome editing)

Essential

Experience in proteomics (e.g. co-IP, LC-MS/MS, ITC)

Essential

Proficiency in microscopy analysis

Desirable

Relevant Experience

Requirement

Importance

Demonstrated ability to perform research and develop novel ideas plant microbe interactions

Essential

Proven record in scientific writing

Essential

Experience of oral research presentations

Essential

Experience of supervising, training and mentoring visitors and students

Essential

Preparing data / information for grant proposals

Desirable

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Requirement

Importance

Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to present complex information with clarity

Essential

Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a team

Essential

Demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills

Essential

Excellent time management and organisational skills

Essential

Ability to follow instructions/Standard Operating Procedures

Essential

Promotes and strives for continuous improvement

Essential

Ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders

Desirable

Additional Requirements

Requirement

Importance

Promotes equality and values diversity

Essential

Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work

Essential

Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute

Essential

Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate

Essential

Willingness to work outside standard working hours when required

Essential

Ability to undertake occasional travel (national and international) related to collaborations and/or seminars

Essential

Attention to detail

Essential

John Innes Centre

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial genetics, carrying out fundamental and strategic research, to train scientists and making our findings available to society.

Our research makes use of a wide range of disciplines in the biological and chemical sciences including; cell biology, biochemistry, chemistry, genetics and molecular biology.

For more information about working at the John Innes Centre, please click here.

We pride ourselves on being a welcoming and inclusive working environment for all. We have a diverse and multicultural scientific community and thrive on our European and international links, appointing staff from across the world. Any candidate who would like further information on current or anticipated immigration requirements can contact the HR Team on +44 (0)1603 450888 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk.

We are proud to hold a prestigious Athena SWAN Gold award, recognising the impact of our work in promoting gender equality in science. We are also a proud member of the Stonewall Diversity Champion’s programme, a founding signatory of the Tecnician Commitment and, as a Disability Confident employer, guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852), limited by guarantee (registered in England No. 511709).

Department

Cell & Developmental Biology

Group Details

The Charpentier lab focus on understanding the signalling network controlling endosymbiotic interactions between soil microbes and crops to achieve higher crop yields with less fertilizers use.

Living in Norfolk

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• Schools in Norfolk
• Childcare in Norfolk

Postdoctoral Researcher
Salary:            £33,050 - £40,750 per annum depending on qualifications and experience.
Contract:        2 years, full time
Location:        John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK.
Closing date: 13 February 2023
Reference:     1004391

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Charpentier Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science in the field of Cell and Developmental Biology.

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 Charpentier Group:

The Charpentier lab focus on understanding the signalling network controlling endosymbiotic interactions between soil microbes and crops to achieve higher crop yields with less fertilizers use.

The role:

The overall aim of the project is to characterize a key novel signalling process that enables arbuscular mycorrhiza and nitrogen fixing bacteria to colonize plants. This research will expand on our recent discovery of a novel positive regulator of endosymbiosis signalling.

The successful applicant will be able to creatively explore the function of this regulator at the interface of both arbuscular mycorrhiza and nitrogen fixing bacteria colonization. The Postdoctoral Researcher will benefit from a highly interdisciplinary and international environment, with outstanding institutional support. The candidate will have the opportunity to develop their grant writing and leadership skills via workshops, as well as technical skills in cell biology and crystallography.

The ideal candidate:

The post holder will possess a PhD (full award or expected within 6 months) in either Plant microbe interactions, Plant signalling or Plant proteomics. Previous experience in standard molecular technics (e.g. GoldenGate, genome editing) and proteomics (e.g. co-IP, LC-MS/MS, ITC) is essential.  Proficiency in microscopy analysis is also desirable.

The post holder will assist in the supervision of students, deliver seminars, and be involved in writing up research. Good communication and writing skills are essential.

Additional information:

Interviews will be held on 2 March 2023.

Please include a short covering letter with your application explaining your motivation and interest to join the lab to work on signalling mechanism of root legume endosymbiosis.

For informal enquires please email Dr Myriam Charpentier directly for further information on myriam.charpentier@jic.ac.uk.

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 of 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.