A post-doctoral Research Associate position is available in the newly established Bhatia group at the Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University.
The lab is investigating the mechanistic basis of the function of the plant hormone cytokinin (CK) in plant development using Arabidopsis thaliana as a model. CK is a fundamental plant hormone that is conventionally considered to promote cell division in plant aerial organs but surprisingly, can also promote cellular differentiation and expansion in aerial organs, in a stage-dependent manner. Therefore, the roles of CK in shaping plant aerial organs are much more diverse than previously thought. How CK regulates and coordinates cell proliferation, differentiation, and expansion decisions remain largely unclear. By integrating genetic analyses including genetic mosaics, time-lapse imaging, cellular growth quantifications, and single-cell omics, our lab investigates (i) how CK regulates cell proliferation and differentiation and (ii) how these distinct cellular effects are coordinated in space and time during aerial organ development. We are in the process of developing cellular and molecular frameworks of CK-mediated coordination of cell proliferation and differentiation that shape plant organ form.
The candidate will be working in a stimulating scientific environment with ample opportunities to learn new techniques. The successful candidate will be encouraged to apply for fellowships with the help of the lab.
Minimum Requirements:
1. Recent PhD degree (within one-two years is desirable but not essential) with strong foundations in plant developmental biology, genetics, and molecular biology.
2. Expertise in basic molecular biology techniques and generation and handling of transgenic plants, preferably but not limited to Arabidopsis.
3. Experience with confocal microscopy and time-lapse imaging of plant aerial organs - leaves and the shoot apical meristem is desirable and will be an advantage.
4. Strong communication skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
5. Enthusiasm to work in a collaborative environment and contribute to a young lab as it grows.
If you are passionate about research in plant development, possess the necessary technical skills and qualities, and are enthusiastic to learn new cutting-edge techniques, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
It is essential that you include a motivation letter in your application clearly stating why you are interested in our work, your future research interests, and how your research experience may align with the advert.
At the Sainsbury Laboratory, we foster a welcoming and collaborative environment. We offer a range of family-friendly benefits and development opportunities to our employees. Successful applicants will join a friendly, interactive research environment with centralized support for horticulture, microscopy, and other facilities like a media kitchen.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Scientific enquiries about the position should be directed to Neha Bhatia - nb759@cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference PT44728 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
#J-18808-Ljbffr