An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Faulkner Group at the John Innes Centre, working on a project titled: How does cell-to-cell communication underpin immunity?

About the Faulkner Group

The Faulkner laboratory focuses on the role of intercellular communication in plant immune responses. Cell-to-cell communication is a fundamental biological process, necessary for co-ordination of development and environmental responses in multicellular organisms. Intercellular pores called plasmodesmata bridge plant cell walls to connect neighbouring cells, generating an interconnected symplast and regulating the flow of many different classes of molecules from cell-to-cell. The objective of this research is to identify what molecules and signals move between cells during plant immune responses, with the aim of understanding the multicellular nature of plant immunity.

The role

The post holder will conduct research on how cell-to-cell connectivity and signalling contributes to plant defence against pathogen threats. The researcher will conduct innovative research to identify and characterise the signals and immune responses that spread from cell-to-cell via the symplast following localised perception of a pathogen. They will use cell biological and genetic approaches to generate data and formulate new hypotheses regarding how cell-to-cell communication underpins plant immune responses.

The ideal candidate

The ideal candidate will possess a PhD in Plant Biology and will have skills in live cell imaging, cell-to-cell communication and molecular biology. They will also have demonstrated ability to perform research and develop novel ideas along with a proven record in scientific writing and oral presentations.

Additional information

Further information and details of how to apply can be found here,  or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450462 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004242.

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.