Group Leader in Fundamental Biology of Legumes

The John Innes Centre (JIC) is seeking a junior or established researcher to lead an independent research programme in fundamental plant biology relevant to legumes or other rotation crops, with potential applications to UK agriculture. 

Experience in legumes is desirable but not essential. We welcome applicants from diverse plant science backgrounds, including genetics, genomics, metabolism, biochemistry and cell biology. 

The successful candidate will be appointed to a six-year tenure-track position with the opportunity to apply for tenure, subject to review. Candidates who already meet tenure requirements may be considered for direct appointment to a tenured role. 

For the full job description, please follow this link. 

Facilities and Support 

The role includes a full-time Research Assistant, a well-equipped laboratory, and support from a Laboratory Manager and media preparation team. You will have access to advanced technology platforms including bioimaging, microscopy, proteomics, structural biology, crop transformation and horticultural services. JIC's 110-hectare field experimentation station enables integrated laboratory and field research on a single site. Explore the full range of platforms here. 

Why Join JIC? 

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial sciences. We nurture a creative, curiosity-led approach to answering fundamental questions in bioscience, and translate that knowledge into societal benefits. Our strategic vision, Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet, sets out our ambitious long-term goals for the game changing impact of our science globally.  

Our employees enjoy access to state-of-the-art technology and a diverse range of specialist training opportunities, including support for leadership and management. Click here to find out more about working at the John Innes Centre. 

International applicants   

We welcome international applicants and our dedicated recruitment team will guide you through the different visa options and application processes. We will cover visa costs for the successful candidate and their dependants as well as the immigration healthcare surcharge (IHS) when you apply for your visa. 

We provide a competitive start-up package, including full funding for a Research Assistant/postdoc, access to student schemes, core lab equipment and access to advanced platform services such as horticulture, bioimaging, and proteomics. With no teaching expectation, you’ll have the freedom to focus fully on your research.  

Find out more about our pay and additional benefits  and about life in the UK. 

Application Process 

Interested applicants should submit:

• CV
• Cover letter outlining your motivation for applying
• Description of current research activities (2-3 pages)
• Short- and long-term research plans (2-3 pages) 

We encourage you to highlight how your research could contribute to JIC’s four strategic research programmes (see here). 

Submit your application by 17:00 GMT 1 September 2026. 

Interviews are tentatively scheduled for 13 and 14 October 2026 and will be held in person at the John Innes Centre. 

Additional information: 

For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our website via the 'Apply' button above or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814, quoting reference 1004923. 

JIC is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. We hold a Gold Athena SWAN award, are members of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme, and actively promote an inclusive and family-friendly workplace. 

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

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