An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Arora Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science in the field of Biochemistry and Metabolism.

About the Arora Group

The Postdoctoral Researcher will be based in the Arora group and will have frequent interactions with the Balk group as part of the Pulse Crop Genetic Improvement Network (PCGIN) programme. Both groups explore the natural diversity of Pisum species to identify genetic polymorphisms that enhance resistance to biotic stresses (Arora group) or nutritional traits (Balk group).

The Arora group employs innovative genomic approaches combined with genetics, pathology and molecular biology to investigate molecular mechanisms underlying disease resistance. Additionally, both groups collaborate intensively with industry to translate the discoveries for practical use by breeders and food processors with the ultimate goal to develop a nutritious, climate-resilient pea crop tailored to the UK’s agricultural needs.

The role

The John Innes Centre holds the UK collection of pea genetic resources that are actively explored to identify genes and alleles for traits of interest. Funding from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) will support a Postdoctoral Researcher to identify genetic variation underlying resistance to diseases that are of primary concern for UK pea crops, as well as tolerance to drought.

The successful applicant will carry out research activities using a combination of genetics, genomics, molecular biology and statistical tools. Pea diversity panel will be screened for resistance to specific viruses, emerging downy mildew strains and study role of root architecture for resilience against root pathogens. The data will be subject to genetic and statistical analysis to identify associated genes and validate them using gene editing and/or gene silencing approaches.

Genetic alleles of interest will be shared with the stakeholder network, to translate the findings to pea breeders, growers and other end users. The post holder will design molecular markers for this purpose (e.g. KASP), write reports for stakeholders and the funding agency (Defra) and draft manuscripts for publication.

The ideal candidate

The successful candidate will have a PhD in Genetics/Molecular Biology/Plant Pathology or a related discipline and a proven ability to work with plants, genetic analysis and skilled in molecular biology techniques.

Experience of working with legumes is desirable, but not essential. The candidate should have strong interest in understanding the genetic basis of disease resistance and other agronomically important traits and crop improvement. Candidates should have experience with conducting and designing plant phenotyping experiments, molecular cloning and have an understanding of the disease resistance mechanisms.

The candidate will have the opportunity to further enhance skills in all areas or diverse transferrable scientific and personal. Scientific skills include plant pathology and genetics, gene editing, bioinformatics and data analysis and interactions with industry. Personal skills include project planning, time management, presentation and writing skills.

Additional information

Further information and details of how to apply can be found here, or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004748. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply.  Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.

We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity.  As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

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