Postdoctoral Researcher

Main Purpose of the Job

Postdoctoral Researchers work with limited supervision to carry out individual and collaborative research projects relevant to the overall needs of the research programme.

Key Relationships

The ideal candidate will have a strong motivation for curiosity-driven science and a collaborative mindset to work effectively within a collegial, multidisciplinary, and interactive team. The role will involve assisting in the supervision of students, delivering seminars, and contributing to the writing up the research findings, so good communication and writing skills are essential. 

Main Activities & Responsibilities

Percentage

Identify, plan, carry out and modify experiments to meet the objectives of the project

50

Prepare results, reports and manuscripts for publication in leading scientific journals and other relevant media

10

Disseminate research findings through presentations to various audiences at internal, national and international meetings

10

Collaborate with colleagues within the Institute in the development of original and world-class research, including contributing to research proposals and grant applications

10

Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, Scientific Integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements

5

Contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, supervision of visitors to the laboratory and assisting with training others, encouraging scientific excellence

5

Continually strive for excellence, seeking out and acting on feedback and relevant learning and development opportunities

5

As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, for example, contributing to the work of Institute committees

5

Education & Qualifications

Requirement

Importance

PhD (full award or expected within 6 months) or equivalent in Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Cell Biology or Plant Biochemistry or related discipline

Essential

BSc or equivalent in Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Cell Biology or Plant Biochemistry

Essential

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

Requirement

Importance

Experience in root nodule symbiosis

Essential

Knowledge of and experience in molecular biology

Essential

Knowledge of and experience in biochemistry

Essential

Relevant Experience

Requirement

Importance

Experience of oral research presentations

Essential

Demonstrated ability to perform research and develop novel ideas in area of plant signalling

Essential

Proven record in scientific writing

Essential

Preparing data / information for grant proposals

Desirable

Experience of supervising, training and mentoring visitors and students

Desirable

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Requirement

Importance

Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to present complex information with clarity

Essential

Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a team

Essential

Demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills

Essential

Excellent time management and organisational skills

Essential

Ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders

Essential

Ability to follow instructions/Standard Operating Procedures

Essential

Promotes and strives for continuous improvement

Essential

Additional Requirements

Requirement

Importance

Promotes equality and values diversity

Essential

Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work

Essential

Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute

Essential

Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate

Essential

Willingness to work outside standard working hours when required

Essential

Ability to undertake occasional travel (national and international) related to collaborations and/or seminars

Essential

Attention to detail

Essential