Overview
At the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), we translate scientific discovery into real-world impact, bringing together visionary scientists, technologists, engineers, researchers, educators and innovators to tackle humanity's greatest challenges in four transformative areas: Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology; Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture; Climate Change & Managing CO₂; Artificial Intelligence & Robotics.
Your Role
The EIT is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher in Plant Biochemistry within the Plant Biology Institute to contribute to the ‘Biological Nitrogen Fixation’ program, which aims to engineer biological nitrogen fixation into widely grown crop plants.
Responsibilities
The Postdoctoral Researcher will design and conduct experiments aligned with stage-gated milestones, optimizing folding, stability, assembly, and functional activity of complex enzymatic systems in plant cells using transient and stable transformation. Key technical requirements include in silico protein analysis and structural modelling, mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis, nitrogen fixation assays, and a foundation in plant molecular biology and biochemistry.
Additional Responsibilities
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to incorporate cutting-edge research techniques.
* Present scientific work at lab and external meetings, contributing to discussions.
* Assist in mentoring graduate students and other group members.
* Collaborate with experts on AI, automation, and generative biology across the EIT ecosystem.
* Draft scientific papers and contribute to publication preparation.
* Help translate scientific results into commercial opportunities aligned with EIT’s humane endeavours.
* Recognise and act on opportunities for IP creation and patent protection.
Essential Skills, Qualifications & Experience
* Completed PhD in a relevant discipline.
* Strong research background and competency in areas including in silico protein analysis and structural modelling, mass spectrometry-based proteomics, enzyme assay development, microaerobic/anaerobic conditions, fluorescent reporters, nitrogen fixation assays, transient plant expression systems, and molecular biology techniques.
* Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, statistical evaluation, and visualisation.
* Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research to the highest standard and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
* Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
* Understanding of the path to impact and consideration of user feedback and market research.
Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience
* Expertise in enzyme structure-guided rational protein engineering or directed evolution.
Benefits
* Salary dependent on experience plus travel allowance and bonus.
* Enhanced holiday and options to buy additional days.
* Pension, life assurance, income protection, private medical insurance, hospital cash plan, therapy services, perk box, electric car scheme, childcare benefit.
What We Offer
* Newly constructed, state-of-the-art laboratories and growth facilities.
* Collaborative research environment focusing on sustainable agriculture and ecosystem outcomes.
* Professional development opportunities including publication, conferences, spin-out generation, and leadership development.
Required Application Materials
* Two letters of reference.
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