Research Associate in Quantitative Plant Development

Applications are invited for a Research Associate (RA) position in the groups of Professors Henrik Jönsson and Elliot Meyerowitz at the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University, to conduct fundamental interdisciplinary research into how plants manage their internal resources to optimise growth and resilience in variable environments.

The successful candidate will use mathematical analysis and computer modelling to understand how plants take up and manage their internal resources. The project aims to investigate how mineral nutrients are taken up by the plant and how they affect its growth and development, considering biophysical constraints. Plants often face difficult conditions, such as poor soil or high salt levels, and this project aims to discover the "rules" that allow them to survive these challenges. Instead of looking at individual plant parts in isolation, you will develop mathematical models and simulations to examine how the whole plant coordinates mineral nutrient uptake with growth, offering a novel way to examine plant resilience.

Applicants must hold a PhD in Computational Biology, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Bioengineering, Systems Biology or a related field. Relevant postdoctoral experience is beneficial. Proficiency in mathematical modelling and analysis of complex systems is required. Candidates are expected to have experience in developing and implementing mathematical and computational models of transport processes, and in identifying model validation protocols using published data and novel experiments. Software development in C++ and/or Python is expected.

The successful applicant will be an excellent team player, solution-oriented and self-motivated. We are looking for someone who is keen to work in a highly collaborative environment and enthusiastic about joining our diverse, interdisciplinary team. Solid communication skills are required to interact with group members and other researchers within SLCU, who have different scientific backgrounds.

The Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment with a wide range of family-friendly benefits and development opportunities. More information about the Sainsbury Laboratory, general information for the role, and details of what the University offers to employees can be found at: http://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/.

This post is available from 1 October 2026.

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

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

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

Scientific enquiries apart from the formal application should be directed to Professor Jönsson at henrik.jonsson@slcu.cam.ac.uk

For questions regarding the application process, please email HR@slcu.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PT50274 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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