Research Associate - Reprogramming Development (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Dr Alexander Jones' Group at the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University. The aim of this position is to reprogram auxin patterns in plants to reveal the functions of specific cellular and subcellular auxin pools.

The plant hormone auxin is a molecular signal that somehow weaves disparate cells, tissues and organs into the patterns of plant development. This feat is even more impressive considering plant development is continuously repatterning to match environmental dynamics. This post takes the critical step of engineering changes to auxin dynamics revealed using novel FRET biosensors engineered by the Jones group. This will involve precise redistribution of auxin in space and time using existing tools and developing entirely new ones.

The role is part of the ERC-funded STARMORPH project, and the post holder will join an international consortium to unravel SpatioTemporal Auxin Redistribution for Morphogenesis using the apical hook as developmental model. If successful, this role will illuminate the threads of auxin mediated morphogenesis while also delivering advanced gene regulation switches for all fields.

For more information, please see a recent talk by Dr. Jones on YouTube (from 1hr30min to 2hrs of the video, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iL_L-mJ7KaE&list=PLoARHFj_EDBUWi7F6lLrY-3rseZfF1HX3) and consult the Jones team website (https://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/research/jones-group).

Applicants must have or be close to obtaining a PhD in Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Synthetic Biology or related field. A solid foundation in molecular biology and in particular gene cloning is strictly required, alongside a willingness and ability to learn and work with new methodologies. We particularly welcome candidates with advanced knowledge of, and a proven track record in, any of the following techniques and concepts: protein and promoter engineering, FACS, Golden-gate cloning, RNAseq, and CRISPR editing. Additional techniques that would be of value are directed evolution, robotics-assisted screening, transient expression in leaves or protoplasts, and Arabidopsis thaliana transformation and husbandry. Proficiency in auxin biology, plant development, structural biology, and confocal imaging and image analysis would also be valuable to the role.

The successful applicant will be a creative scientist who is solution orientated and self-motivated. Excellent interpersonal skills and record keeping are essential, alongside the ability to work both independently and in teams. The Jones group is looking for a person excited about our collaborative, diverse and interdisciplinary team. Solid communication skills are required to interact with team members with different backgrounds. Candidates should also demonstrate a history of science communication (e.g. presentations, outreach activities, teaching).

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/

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

Please ensure that you upload a copy of your full CV including a list of publications, and a cover letter highlighting your suitability for the position and contact information of three referees.

Scientific enquiries should be directed to Dr Jones at alexander.jones@slcu.cam.ac.uk.

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

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