John Innes Centre
Location
Colney, Norfolk | United Kingdom
Job description
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Seung Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science in the field of Biochemistry and Metabolism.
Dr Seung’s research group aims to develop a full molecular understanding of how plants make starch. The group’s current research has several sub-objectives:
•Understand the mechanism of starch granule initiation
•Identify genes that underpin diversity in starch granule morphology and composition
•Develop novel approaches to improve the quality of starch crops.
The team maintains a vibrant and stimulating research atmosphere – currently consisting of a Postdoctoral Scientist, five Postgraduate Students and one Research Assistant. We regularly host projects for undergraduate and Masters students.
We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to continue work on a BBSRC-funded project, which aims to discover the molecular mechanisms of starch granule formation in developing potato tubers. The project aims to build on recent discoveries in our lab that identified specific proteins that determine starch granule shape and size in potato, but the exact mechanism by which these proteins act remains unclear.
The post holder will aim to discover these mechanisms by characterising how these proteins interact with starch substrates, and identifying which other proteins they interact with. They will characterise transgenic potato lines with altered expression of these proteins, to determine their role in granule formation. They will also assess the contribution of the amyloplast (the organelle in which starch is made) to starch granule morphology. They will work in collaboration with our industry partner, who will examine how altering starch granule morphology affects tuber quality in a variety of applications.
You will have a BSc or equivalent in biology, with plants as a major element. You will also have a PhD in plant biology or related discipline, or are expecting the award within the next 6 months. You must have a solid understanding of biochemical methods to discover and characterise protein-protein and protein-substrate interactions, and prior experience in these areas. Previous experience in fluorescence microscopy is also desired. You will already have in-depth knowledge of plant metabolism, and a demonstrated ability to perform research and develop novel ideas in the field. Ideally, you will also have some experience working in starch synthesis. Please outline your experience in these areas in your cover letter.
It is essential that you value teamwork, and are willing to work in an international collaboration with an industry partner. The post is particularly suitable for candidates looking for research experience at the interface of academia and industry.
Further information and details of how to apply can be found hereor contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or [email protected] quoting reference 1004615. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.
We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity. As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.
The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.
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Salary
£35.3k - £37.8k per annum
