Research Associate: Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions

Job description:

Are you a motivated and creative molecular biologist with a passion for plant–microbe interactions? Do you want to apply the latest molecular and high-throughput ’omics technologies to uncover how symbiotic fungi regulate plant physiology and nutrient exchange? We have an exciting opportunity in the School of Biosciences for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join Professor Katie Field’s research group.

This Royal Society-funded project focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that underpin plant–fungal symbioses. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team including scientists from the University of Sheffield, the Natural History Museum (London), and Lancaster University. Using model plant systems, such as Arabidopsis and Medicago, you will combine controlled laboratory experiments with advanced molecular biology techniques (mutant analysis, confocal microscopy), high-throughput ’omics approaches (e.g. transcriptomics, metabolomics) and physiology (radiotracer experiments) to study gene expression, metabolic networks, and regulatory pathways in plant-fungal symbioses.

In this role, you will design and implement experiments, analyse complex datasets, and integrate molecular and physiological insights to advance understanding of fungal regulation and function. You will also contribute to publications, presentations, and project reporting, and work collaboratively with PhD students, research technicians, and project partners across institutions.

You will have a PhD (or equivalent postdoctoral level work experience) in plant molecular biology, plant-microbe interactions, microbiology, or a related discipline, and hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques, experimental design, and working with model plant systems. Experience with high-throughput ‘omics approaches and associated data analysis is essential. You will be able to work independently, manage your time effectively, and communicate clearly within a multidisciplinary team. Enthusiasm, curiosity, and a collaborative mindset are also essential.

At the University of Sheffield, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a competitive annual leave entitlement, flexible working opportunities, a generous pension scheme, and a commitment to your professional development and wellbeing.

Find out more at sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits and join us to become part of something special.

We build teams of people from diverse heritages and lifestyles whose talents and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching, and student experience.

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