Research Associate : Cambridge, United Kingdom

Job Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate

Applications are invited for a Post-doctoral Research Associate position in the group of Professor Helariutta at The Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University, to work on an ERC funded project investigating the role of symplastic communication during root development.

The overall aim of this project is to assess the role of symplastic communication, i.e. plasmodesmata-mediated molecular trafficking in regulating root development. It is based on a molecular tool, icals3m, with which we can inhibit molecular trafficking through the plasmodesmata in a time and space specific manner (Vaten et al. 2011). We have established a library of lines driving this effector under cell-specific promoters. With this material we can identify the genes responding to symplastic control, address the underlying mobile signals and determine the hierarchical role of various plant tissues in symplastic communication. The project consists of high-throughput gene expression analyses in a high spatial resolution, followed by functional analyses at a molecular genetic level. Sophisticated imaging and bioinformatics will be deployed.

The post holder will drive forward this research, producing research papers in the process.

Candidates must be close to completing or have a PhD in Genetics, Plant Biology or related subject and should have extensive research experience in experimental cellular or developmental biology, preferably in Arabidopsis. They must have prior experience in mutant analysis, gene mapping or functional analysis, including that of genetic regulation. Experience in confocal microscopy, molecular cloning and histology are desirable.

The post holder will need to work well in a team and collaborate with other researchers in the Institute. Candidates would ideally have published or submitted papers in this area.

Information about the Sainsbury Laboratory and the generic further particulars for the role can be found at:http://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/

To apply online for this vacancy, please click on the link: http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/5582/

This will route you to the University's Web Recruitment System, where you will need to register an account (if you have not already) and log in before completing the online application form.

Please ensure that you upload a copy of your full CV, a supporting statement and contact information of three referees.

Fixed term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

The Sainsbury Laboratory receives a high volume of applications. If you have not heard from us within three weeks of the closing date, please consider your application as unsuccessful on this occasion