Research Associate - Moyroud Group (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the group of Dr Edwige Moyroud at the Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University. The successful candidate will conduct fundamental research aimed at investigating the mechanisms responsible for cell fate specification and differentiation during petal development using Hibiscus trionum as a model system. The post holder will combine genetic analysis and functional investigations in planta with a range of imaging techniques (including CryoSEM and confocal microscopy) to investigate the mechanisms allowing candidates genes previously identified by the Moyroud lab to specify distinct cell shapes across the petal epidermis. This post requires pro-active and creative candidates who thrive addressing broad and ambitious biological questions, seek to broaden their experimental skills and are enthusiastic about using multidisciplinary approaches to understand how plants can pattern their lateral organs to generate functional surfaces.

Candidates must have, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in either Plant Biology, Development, Molecular & Cell Biology or Genetics. The successful candidate will have advanced knowledge of, or experience in, classical and molecular genetic techniques, assays to investigate gene expression, diverse microscopy techniques (light, SEM/TEM, confocal etc), plant transformation and phenotypic analysis at cellular and tissular levels. Experience working with established plant model systems, alongside a willingness and ability to work with an emerging model species, is essential. Previous experience with image analysis, producing and/or analysing next-generation sequencing data (bulk RNAseq or single-nuclei/single-cell RNAseq), and knowledge of the mechanisms governing plant morphogenesis would also be advantageous.

The successful candidate will be fully involved in writing up their research work for presentation and publication and will be encouraged and supported in preparing applications for independent fellowships. The post holder will be required to assist in the supervision of student projects and deliver seminars relating to their research area. We also actively engage in interactive outreach activities with a broad audience and a clear interest in science communication is important. The Moyroud group is looking for a strong team player, keen to work in a highly collaborative set-up and enthusiastic to join a diverse and interdisciplinary team that draws on the different experiences of its members. Continuing to build an inclusive culture that supports, encourages and celebrates diverse voices is essential to us. We are looking for a new team member with strong interpersonal skills, keen to interact with group members, support staff and other researchers at SLCU from different backgrounds.

The Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment with a strong mentoring culture and offers a wide-range of development opportunities and family-friendly benefits. More about the Sainsbury Laboratory and details of what the University offers to employees can be found at: http://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/.

Scientific enquiries apart from the formal application should be directed to Dr Edwige Moyroud at edwige.moyroud@slcu.cam.ac.uk. Please ensure that you upload a copy of your full CV including a list of publications, a covering letter highlighting your suitability for the position and contact information of three referees.

Where a PhD has yet to be awarded the appointment will initially be made at Research Assistant level and amended to Research Associate upon the award of PhD.

The post is full time and available from 15 August 2025.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

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