Research Associate (Fixed Term)

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Detail information about job Research Associate (Fixed Term). Terms and conditions vacancy

Applications are invited for a Post-doctoral Research Associate position in the group of Dr Giles Oldroyd at the Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University, to work on a project focusing on the molecular mechanisms of the key factor Nodule Inception (NIN) during the nodules symbiosis in Medicago truncatula. The successful candidate will undertake research aimed at gaining a mechanistic understanding of how NIN works during nodule organogenesis and will have an initial focus on the identification of NIN-interacting proteins.

The successful candidate will be required to identify, develop and apply a broad range of techniques to pursue the research objectives whilst drafting scientific papers, and contributing to the overall preparation of research for publication.

Applicants must have a PhD in Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics or related field, alongside an element of creativity and initiative to develop novel approaches and methods. Experience with molecular biology and biochemistry techniques and assay development are therefore essential.

Candidates must have advanced knowledge of and experience in the following areas: (1) western blot analysis, (2) recombinant DNA technology and heterologous protein expression, (3) protein purification, (4) antibody production, (5) nuclei preparation, and (6) protein-protein interaction analysis. Knowledge in the area of the molecular mechanisms governing the establishment of symbiotic associations in legumes would also be advantageous.

The post holder will present scientific work at seminars within the Laboratory, contributing to Laboratory-wide discussions on developments within the field, as well as external meetings. The candidate will also be required to contribute to the smooth running of the group and training of students and other group members.

Good communication skills are essential, as the post holder will need to present data to other members of the group, external collaborators and sponsor agencies for grant applications. Candidates will also need to be able to work well in a team.

The Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment with a wide-range of family-friendly benefits and development opportunities. More about the Sainsbury Laboratory and details of what the University offers to employees, can be found at: www.slcu.cam.ac.uk.

The post is available from November 2017.

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

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please visit:

www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/14746. This will take you to the role on the University’s Job Opportunities pages. There you will need to click on the 'Apply online' button and register an account with the University's Web Recruitment System (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 with a list of publications, a covering letter highlighting your suitability for the position and contact information of three referees.

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.

Please quote reference PT13094 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.