Research Assistant/Associate - Bartlett Group x 2 (Fixed Term)

sexualThe Bartlett lab is searching for two Research Associates/Assistants to join our team.

The Bartlett Lab studies the developmental and evolutionary processes underpinning plant morphological diversity. We work to identify the genes that regulate plant development, describe the evolutionary histories of these genes, and connect the molecular evolution of developmental genes to the evolution of plant form. Traits we focus on include the evolution of sporophytic sex determination (see Gallagher et al, 2023; Klein et al, 2022, and Subramaniam and Bartlett, 2024), and the evolution of floral organ elaborations called awns that have diversified in form and function in the grasses (see Schrager-Lavelle et al, 2017; Patterson et al, 2023, 2024). Both floral sexuality and awns can be important in crop productivity. Thus, our work dissecting the mechanisms underpinning morphological diversification can have translational applications in agriculture.

For these positions, the successful candidates will investigate the evolution of developmental gene regulation in the grasses, especially as it relates to the evolution of development. The successful candidates will ideally have expertise in reverse and forward genetics in the grasses, especially in the model systems Zea mays (maize) or Brachypodium distachyon. We particularly welcome candidates with expertise in grass transformation and/or spatial transcriptomics in grasses. Expertise in molecular biology, genetics and plant developmental biology are required.

The successful applicants will be excellent team player's and excited about collaborations at SLCU, within the UK, and abroad. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required, alongside the ability to work both independently and with researchers from differing scientific backgrounds. The successful applicants will have a track record of science communication (e.g. presentations, outreach activities, teaching), and will have published in the field of plant biology. The successful applicants will be expected to be fully involved in the research, including deciding on the direction of their project (with advice from Dr. Bartlett), leading publication efforts, and presenting on their work at conferences and seminars. The successful applicants may also be required to assist in the supervision of student projects in the lab.

Applicants must have or be close to obtaining a PhD in Plant Biology, Genetics, Evolutionary Biology, Molecular Biology, or related field. Where a PhD has yet to be awarded the appointment will initially be made at Research Assistant level (Grade 5) and amended to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon the award of PhD. It is critical that you include a motivational letter with your application, stating your research interests and expertise, and how they align with the advertised project.

For more information, please consult the lab website (www.bartlettlab.org), or contact Madelaine Bartlett via email at mb2705@cam.ac.uk.

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/.

The post is available from October 2025.

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

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above. 

For questions regarding the application process, please email HR@slcu.cam.ac.uk

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.

Advert information