Main Purpose of the Job
An exciting opportunity for an Independent Fellowship in Plant-Associated Microbial Interactions has arisen at the John Innes Centre.
Create and lead an internationally excellent, independent discovery programme in microbial or fungal communities and their interactions with hosts, particularly where these interactions have beneficial effects on plant & soil health, with the potential to underpin increased agricultural sustainability.
Key Relationships
The post holder will work closely with the Director, Senior Management team and scientists within JIC and other stakeholders across the NRP.
Internal: Work collaboratively with all levels of staff within the Institute to enhance the Institute's research and capabilities.
External: Work collaboratively with staff on the NRP, academic and industry collaborators, funding bodies, Government and other stakeholders to enhance the Institute's research and capabilities.
Main Activities & Responsibilities
Lead and manage an internationally recognised, high-profile and innovative research programme in the field of microbial interactions.
Make significant contributions to the strategic thinking and planning of research.
Lead and manage a research team, taking responsibility for its outputs and impact. This will include selecting, supervising, mentoring, training and providing wellbeing support for postdoctoral researchers, technicians, students and visitors, supporting effective career development, maintaining high levels of performance in the team, and maintaining a positive research culture.
Disseminate research findings through the publication of peer-reviewed research papers, consolidate the Institute's international scientific reputation through participation in national and internal conferences and provision of expert commentary in a variety of media.
Submit grant proposals across a broad range of potential funders, securing substantial research funding to support the research programme.
Ensure that research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with best practice, institute Policies and Procedures and legal requirements.
Ensure that the research team complies with health and safety policy and guidance documents, and with quality assurance and data management procedures.
Manage the research group’s budgets for consumables, grants and other funding, making cost-effective use of resources and minimising waste.
Enhance the wider social and economic impact of the institute's research through influencing and developing partnerships and commercial opportunities with government, industry and other external parties.
Positively contribute to the effective leadership and management of the institute, through additional responsibilities, including committee and steering group membership, as and when required.
Commit to public engagement/science communication activities that raise the institute's profile and public awareness of science.
Act as an ambassador for the institute.
Any other duties that may be required, which are commensurate with the role of Group Leader.
Education & Qualifications
Requirement
Importance
PhD or equivalent in relevant subject
Essential
Substantial postdoctoral research experience
Essential
Specialist Knowledge & Skills
Requirement
Importance
Significant track-record of internationally competitive research achievement, supported by a strong publication record in peer reviewed journals
Essential
Ability to formulate and lead a research programme that will deliver innovative, world-class science in molecular host-microbes interactions or a related field
Essential
Knowledge of JIC/NRP research fields, underpinning an explanation of the benefits of locating the proposed research programme at JIC
Essential
Deep and broad understanding of the scientific background of the proposed research programme
Essential
Capacity to envisage and articulate the longer-term objectives and impact of the proposed research programme
Essential
Measures of esteem such as international invited talks, editorial appointments, membership of external grant or appointments panels etc
Desirable
Success in leading research and initiating interdisciplinary collaborations
Desirable
Relevant Experience
Requirement
Importance
Demonstrated ability to plan and prioritise to ensure scientific ideas translate into delivery of research outcomes
Essential
Demonstrated commitment to the highest levels of integrity and best practice in science and scientific management
Essential
Evidence of winning external funding for the maintenance of a successful and sustainable research team
Desirable
Experience of motivating, managing and mentoring team members, including objective setting and regular informal and formal reviews of progress
Desirable
Research project leadership and management experience in stand-alone and collaborative projects
Desirable
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
Requirement
Importance
Strong team player that can work with different skill sets to reach a common goal, sharing information and supporting colleagues
Essential
Effective and appropriate communication with people at all levels both inside and outside the Institute
Essential
Development and articulation of innovative approaches and cohesive scientific plans
Essential
Open-minded, determined and resilient approach to scientific planning and management
Essential
Creation and fostering collaborative research networks
Essential
Additional Requirements
Requirement
Importance
Exhibits a high level of motivation combined with a flexible approach
Essential
Promotes equality and values diversity, embraces the expected values and behaviours of all staff, ensuring the institute is a great place to work
Essential
Exhibits enthusiasm for an immediate or future role in leading and developing JIC science and values, both within the Institute and further afield
Essential
Attention to detail
Essential
Ability to travel nationally/internationally to facilitate collaborations and/or present seminars. (Reasonable adjustments will be considered as we recognise the need for work-life balance and the need to support those with caring responsibilities),
Essential
Promotes equality and values diversity
Essential