Two Postdoctoral Positions in Single-cell and Spatial Dissection of Plant-microbe Interactions

Leveraging single-cell multiomics and spatial transcriptomics, our lab has set a strong foundation for delving into how individual cells of plants and microbes interact with each other. The next phase will involve advancing methodologies to simultaneously analyze plant and microbial cells at the single-cell level in native (three dimensional) tissue contexts. Through this research, we aim to identify unique cell populations of plants and microbes, investigate their functions, and understand their regulatory mechanisms. The ultimate goal is to precisely engineer these cells to manipulate the outcomes of plant-microbe interactions in variable environmental conditions.

We seek candidates who are creative, entrepreneurial, and collaborative, with a strong capacity for independent research. As part of our multi-disciplinary and international team, you will enjoy considerable freedom and responsibility in steering your research projects. The Nobori lab is looking for motivated applicants with the desire to learn and develop a broad range of skills. Our work environment is rooted in the core values of Trust, Autonomy, Professionalism, and Responsibility.

Qualifications

• Essential:
  • PhD degree in a relevant field, or working towards one.

Skills

• Essential
  • extensive proficiency in various molecular biology and/or genomics techniques;
  • exceptional ability to learn new techniques and concepts swiftly;
  • excellent interpersonal skills, with a focus on teamwork;
  • strong critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities;
  • exceptional written and oral communication skills;
  • robust time management and organizational skills;
  • innovative thinking with the ability to develop novel ideas;
  • capability to work independently and see individual projects through to completion.
• Desirable
  • proficiency in computational biology, particularly with tools like R and Python;
  • advanced skills in microscopy.

Experience

• Essential (at least one of the following)
  • experience in research related to host-microbe interactions or microbial ecology;
  • experience with large-scale omics data analysis (bulk, single-cell, spatial);
  • experience with technology development in the areas of genomics and genome editing.
• Desirable (at least one of the following)
  • experience with the analysis of cis-regulatory elements and transcriptional regulation;
  • experience with the analysis of natural variation.

Mentoring and Career Development:

As founding members of a brand-new lab, postdoctoral researchers will play a pivotal role in shaping both the research direction and the culture of the lab. You will be actively involved in the decision-making processes that influence our scientific trajectory. Dr. Nobori is committed to providing close, hands-on mentorship to enhance your postdoctoral training. This will include guidance on project design and execution, honing your skills in written and oral presentation, as well as networking. Opportunities for teaching and mentoring will also be available in the lab.

Commencing August 2024 the posts are for 3 years, subject to successful completion of a 6 month probationary term, with the possibility of extension.

Salary will be within the UEA Research and Analogous Salary Scale Grade at between £36,333 to £43,155 pa; however, the appointment level will reflect qualifications, skills, knowledge and achievements.

The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) is a world leader in plant and microbial science that is dedicated to making fundamental discoveries in the science of plant-microbe interactions. TSL has expanded its scientific mission not only to continue providing fundamental biological insights into plant-pathogen interactions, but also to deliver novel, genomics-based solutions that will significantly reduce losses from major crop diseases, especially in developing countries.

We offer 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme and the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge. We are located on an attractive campus offering cultural and recreational activities. We are committed to creating and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce and we provide a supportive working environment for all colleagues.

Applicants should provide a CV, including the names and contact details of two or more referees, and a covering letter of no more than one A4 addressing the selection criteria.