Postdoctoral Researcher

Location: Centrum, Norwich Research Park, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7GJ

Contract Type: Fixed term – 36 months

About the Role

We are pleased to announce a new opportunity for a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Researcher to join the British Beet Research Organisation. The successful applicant will be embedded within the Norwich Research Park, based at BBRO and working collaboratively with project partners at the John Innes Centre. For research purposes you will have access to all the research facilities and training opportunities within the group of Professor Steven Penfield at the John Innes Centre Department of Crop Genetics, including molecular biology laboratories, glasshouses and high-performance computing facilities.

The post holder will be a strong team player, able to work closely with other project staff both at BBRO and JIC and act as a bridge between the two organisations and the other project partners. The post will therefore interest candidates keen to gain experience working in both public and private sector research organisations.

A key aspect of the role will involve the investigation of Closterovirus and Polerovirus strain variation in English sugar beet fields, contributing valuable insights into viral diversity. The position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of sugar beet research, combining molecular biology and plant pathology to address a key challenge in sugar beet production. 

Key Responsibilities

• Preparation of sugar beet samples for whole genome and tissue expression sequencing (maintenance of sugar beet plants; RNA extraction).
• Preparation of sugar beet field samples for long-read RNA sequencing of Closterovirus and Poleroviruses (RNA extraction).
• Support with the maintenance laboratory cultures of Closterovirus, Poleroviruses and uninfected aphids.
• Perform viral pathogen challenge using the BBRO Virus Yellows (VY) inoculation system.
• Record, analyse and interpret experimental data.
• Contribute to reports and quarterly grant reviews.
• Collaborate effectively with academic and industry partners to ensure project milestones are achieved.

About You

Essential Criteria:

• BSc or equivalent in biological sciences
• A PhD (full award or expected within 6 months) in Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Virology, Plant Pathology, Molecular Genetics, or a closely related discipline.
• Practical experience working with plant viruses, virus-vector systems and molecular biology techniques.
• Ability to design, conduct and troubleshoot laboratory experiments independently.
• Experience handling and maintaining plant and insect cultures under controlled conditions.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex biological data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to contribute to scientific reports and publications.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team.
• Willingness and ability to travel to field sites across England for sample collection.

Desirable Criteria:

• Understanding of agricultural research or collaboration with industry partners.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools for genome or transcriptome analysis.
• Knowledge of Closteroviruses, Poleroviruses, or similar plant viral systems.
• Previous experience working with sugar beet or other crop plant systems.
• Experience using plant virus inoculation systems.

About the Department/Institute

The BBRO, www.bbro.co.uk, is a dynamic organisation with a friendly team, who are enthusiastic about agriculture and making a difference for sugar beet growers. We conduct research to help the UK sugar beet industry increase profitability and sustainably improve yields.

How to Apply

If you are motivated with a passion for the agricultural sector, we would love to hear from you! Send us a copy of your latest CV (in complete confidence), and a little bit about yourself directly via the 'Apply' button above (E:stephen.swainston@bbro.co.uk)

Closing Date: 19^th December 2025