An exciting opportunity for an Independent Fellowship in Plant-Associated Microbial Interactions has arisen at the John Innes Centre. To read the full job description for this role,
The role
The John Innes Centre (JIC) recognises the critical importance of this rapidly evolving field and invites applications from visionary scientists for an Independent Research Fellowship focused on microbial communities and their interactions. We welcome candidates with expertise and interests in any aspect of microbial or fungal communities and their interactions with host organisms, particularly where these interactions contribute to plant and soil health.
Relevant research areas include, but are not limited to:
1. rhizosphere and phyllosphere microbiology
2. microbial evolution
3. molecular and/or structural aspects of plant-microbe or plant-fungal interactions
4. the molecular biology of soil-dwelling bacteria or fungi
5. interspecies chemical signalling
6. bacteria/fungus-virus interactions in the soil
7. soil microbiology
8. microbial community modelling
9. and plant genetics in the context of microbial interactions.
This position will come with access to JIC’s extensive resources and state-of-the-art plant growth facilities. The candidate will join a vibrant microbiology and plant science research community, providing excellent opportunities for internal collaboration and research synergy.
The successful candidate will be offered an initial five-year Independent Fellowship position, with the opportunity to transfer to a three-year tenure-track Group Leader appointment at the end of this period, subject to review. If the candidate selected meets the requirement for tenure-track prior to the end of the five-year Fellowship an earlier transition is possible, again subject to review.
The ideal candidate
The successful candidate will have a PhD or equivalent in a relevant subject to the role. They will also have substantial postdoctoral research experience and a significant track-record of internationally competitive research achievement, supported by a strong publication record in peer reviewed journals.
You will have the ability to formulate and lead a research programme that will deliver innovative, world-class science in molecular host-microbes interactions or a related field and good knowledge of JIC/NRP research fields, underpinning an explanation of the benefits of locating the proposed research programme at JIC.
The successful candidate will also have demonstrated ability to plan and prioritise to ensure scientific ideas translate into delivery of research outcomes as well as demonstrated commitment to the highest levels of integrity and best practice in science and scientific management.
It is essential that the post holder is a strong team player that can work with different skill sets to reach a common goal and good knowledge of effective and appropriate communication with people at all levels both inside and outside the Institute.