Senior Research Officer (Postdoctoral Research Associate)

We are looking for an exceptional and driven Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join the visionary PlantPlug project, in the research group of Dr Pallavi Singh, School of Life Sciences at University of Essex.

PlantPlug is an ambitious, ARIA-funded initiative led by Dr Pallavi Singh that is redefining the role of parasitic plants as programmable living biointerfaces. This is a rare opportunity to work at the cutting edge of synthetic biology, developmental plant science, and interspecies communication, using mistletoe as an entirely novel chassis for trait transfer between plants. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in building and delivering the experimental and technical foundations of this pioneering grant, from in-vitro mistletoe germination and propagation to genetic transformation and host-integration assays. Embedded within the dynamic, cross-disciplinary Singh Lab, the PDRA will work alongside leading researchers in plant synthetic biology, vascular signalling, and crop engineering. In addition to driving experimental progress, the PDRA will be expected to lead the preparation and submission of at least two high-quality research manuscripts. The role also offers valuable opportunities to develop skills in project management, mentorship, grant writing, and applying for independent research funding, providing a strong foundation for the next stage of an academic or innovation-driven career.

The successful candidate will be based in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Essex, joining the Singh Lab, an interdisciplinary group at the forefront of plant synthetic biology, developmental biology, and crop innovation. The lab’s research spans photosynthesis, root–shoot communication, and synthetic genomics, with a growing focus on harnessing parasitic plants as novel biotechnological tools. The lab is deeply collaborative, offering opportunities to engage with UK and international partners across academia, industry, and innovation ecosystems. 

Duties of the Role

The Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) will play a pivotal role in the ARIA-funded PlantPlug project, which is redefining parasitic plants as programmable living biointerfaces. The post holder will:

• Establish and optimise in-vitro mistletoe germination and propagation systems.
• Develop and implement genetic transformation strategies.
• Conduct host-integration and interspecies trait transfer assays.
• Drive experimental design, data analysis, and technical innovation at the project’s core.
• Lead the preparation and submission of at least two high-quality research manuscripts.
• Collaborate closely with national and international project partners.
• Contribute to lab management, mentoring junior researchers, and knowledge exchange.
• Engage in grant writing, project management, and the development of independent research ideas. 

This is a rare opportunity to work at the cutting edge of synthetic biology, developmental plant science, and interspecies communication within a vibrant, supportive environment.

Please use the 'Apply' button to read further information about this role including the full job description and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role. You will also find details of how to make your application here.

Our website http://www.essex.ac.uk contains more information about the University of Essex. If you have a disability and would like information in a different format, please email resourcing@essex.ac.uk.

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