Postdoctoral Research Associate

Location: Life and Mind Building, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3EL 

This is an opportunity for an ambitious postdoctoral research associate to study the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis, led by Dr. Ronelle Roth in the Plant Molecular Biology Section. 

EVs are produced across all kingdoms of life where they mediate cell-to-cell communication, however, in plants their biogenesis, secretion and function remain poorly understood. We are recruiting a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with experience in plant-fungal interactions. Research will build on recent LC-MS/MS analysis of EVs isolated during the interaction of M. truncatula and the AM fungus, R. irregularis. The project focuses on obtaining a mechanistic understanding of EV biogenesis, cargo loading and signals that regulate EV release during the interaction. The post-doc will work closely with lab members but with a focus on EV-associated fungal proteins. They will assist in protocol and technique development and use reverse genetics for functional analysis of EV candidates. This project will require a strong molecular biology background, knowledge in AI-based protein structural prediction, in vitro expression systems and cryo-EM, experience in analyzing large datasets, and solid background in biochemistry. Knowledge of confocal microscopy is optional. 

The post holder will additionally assist Dr Roth with funding applications, writing manuscripts as well as providing guidance to junior members of the research group which include research assistants, MBiol and PhD students, and project volunteers. They will have access to cutting-edge experimental and computational facilities situated in the new Life and Mind Building (LaMB). The postholder will have the opportunity to interact with collaborating researchers in Oxford and across Europe. 

The University of Oxford is committed to equal opportunity, and to being a place where everyone belongs and is supported to succeed. We recognise how the diversity of our community enriches our ability to deliver on our academic mission.

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. 

This post is full time and available immediately.

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