Research Associate in Programmable Plant Immunity

Location: South Kensington Campus

About the role:

Join the pioneering “Programmable Plant Immunity” initiative, where we will build the first open-source, AI-guided discovery and bio-engineering platform capable of designing synthetic immune receptors for crops. Working at the intersection of structural bioinformatics, molecular plant–microbe interactions, and synthetic biology, you will generate receptors that detect stealthy pathogen effectors and re-engineer them to broaden disease-resistance spectra.

This job is part of an Advanced Research + Invention Agency-funded project, subject to contract negotiations.

What you would be doing:

In this role you will drive both the computational and laboratory strands of our “Programmable Plant Immunity” project. You will develop digital workflows to uncover new disease-resistance genes, translate promising leads into rapid plant assays, and iteratively engineer improved receptor variants. Working closely with a multidisciplinary team, you’ll help shape project strategy, document and share datasets for regular reviews, and represent the work through publications and conference presentations.

What we are looking for:

We are seeking a passionate and driven researcher with:

• A PhD (or near completion) in Molecular Biology, Plant Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Experience in molecular biology, plant immunity, genetics or bionformatics.
• Strong skills in high-throughput cloning via Golden Gate
• A collaborative mindset, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Proven experience in molecular biology
• Proven experience in protein biochemistry
• Proven experience in employing AI-tools for protein complex and structure prediction
• Experience in protein-protein interactions (co-immunoprecipitation of proteins)
• Experience with molecular cloning methods (Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate cloning etc)
• Experience in transient expression systems in N. benthamiana
• Have the ability to develop and apply new concepts
• Have a creative approach to problem-solving
• Good teamwork skills, well-developed laboratory experience and a positive attitude towards tinkering and learning new methods
• Familiarity with bioinformatics, or AI-driven protein modeling is a plus.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research at a world-leading institution and contribute to fundamental discoveries in plant immunity and pathogen interactions.
• Be part of a highly collaborative and supportive, multidisciplinary research environment, working with leading experts from Imperial College London.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced imaging platforms, protein biochemistry, gene editing tools, and Cryo-EM techniques.
• Career development opportunities, including access to Imperial’s dedicated researcher development programs, leadership training, and mentoring schemes.
• A competitive salary and benefits package, including 39 days of annual leave and a generous pension scheme.
• A diverse, inclusive, and supportive work culture, with access to staff networks and resources to enhance both personal and professional well-being.

Further Information

Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact:

Dr Tolga Bozkurt – o.bozkurt@imperial.ac.uk

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