Post-doctoral Position 2 Blades Group

To identify resistance against Asian Soybean Rust

A Post-doctoral position is available in the 2Blades group at the Sainsbury Laboratory. The appointee will deploy state-of-the-art methods to identify novel resistance genes effective against Asian soybean rust, a key challenge for growers in Brazil. You will have significant responsibility for carrying out the experimental challenges in the project. The main activities will involve identifying candidate genes, validation using Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), handling large data sets and basic informatics. In addition, the successful candidate will conduct a functional characterisation of candidate genes using transient and stable expression systems. We seek an individual with outstanding talent and abilities in molecular biology, phytopathology and/or genetics. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated record of achievement in academia or industry, and an eagerness to work as part of a multi-disciplinary group. Experience in quantitative genetics and genomics, working with obligate biotrophic pathogens and/or map-based cloning would be highly advantageous.

The 2Blades Foundation is a U.S. nonprofit organization that discovers and advances technologies that significantly reduce or entirely prevent crop disease from improving agricultural output and the lives of people around the world. The 2Blades group at TSL is a curious, enthusiastic, and innovative team nurturing a friendly and supportive working environment.  For more information please visit www.2blades.org.

Essential requirements include:

• highly skilled in molecular biology, plant breeding, phytopathology and /or genetics
• a Ph.D. in bioinformatics, phytopathology, plant or molecular biology
• a demonstrable record of achievement in academia or industry
• an ability to operate as part of a collaborative, multi-disciplinary, international team
• excellent writing, interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• talent for communication with a diverse range of partners and stakeholders
• drive to see research outcomes reach practical application                                                                                                                     

The salary will be within the UEA Research and Analogous Staff Grade 7 scale at £35,333- £42,155 pa; however, the appointment level will reflect qualifications, skills, knowledge and achievements.   This is a temporary position available for 6 months initially. 

We offer 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme and the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge.  We are located on an attractive campus offering cultural and recreational activities. We are committed to creating and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce and we provide a supportive working environment for all colleagues. 

The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) is a world leader in plant and microbial science that is dedicated to making fundamental discoveries in the science of plant-microbe interactions. TSL has expanded its scientific mission not only to continue providing fundamental biological insights into plant-pathogen interactions, but also to deliver novel, genomics-based solutions that will significantly reduce losses from major crop diseases, especially in developing countries.   

Please send formal applications, quoting the relevant reference.  Applicants should provide a CV, including the names and contact details of two or more referees, and a covering letter of no more than one A4 addressing the selection criteria. Please apply online at  TSL.ac.uk  using the 'Apply' button above.

Reference: YG01/2023                                      

Closing Date: 24^th April 2023