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Postdoctoral Research Scientist : Norwich, United Kingdom

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join the laboratory of Prof Robert Sablowski in the department of Cell and Developmental Biology at the John Innes Centre.

Plant architecture depends in large part on the on the size and shape of the stem, which vary widely in nature and in crops. The genetic and developmental basis for this variation, however, is mostly unknown. Knowledge about stem ontogenesis and novel genetic variation that modifies stem development is not only of fundamental interest in plant development and evolution, but also has great strategic potential for crop improvement.

An effective approach to reveal the genetic basis of natural variation is genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and in recent years Arabidopsis has emerged as a powerful model for GWAS. Also in the last years, novel imaging and quantitative, 3D image analysis methods have created unprecedented opportunities to study the cellular basis of plant growth. In this project, we combine both approaches to reveal the genetic basis for natural variation in stem development and the mechanism of action of the underlying genes.

A PhD in cell biology, development or molecular biology is required. The ideal candidate will have a proven record of scientific productivity and will combine rigorous and creative thought with attention to detail and ability to integrate their own project and results with knowledge from the relevant literature. Good knowledge of statistics, experience with Arabidopsis genetics, confocal microscopy, image analysis and knowledge of programming languages (R, Python) will be advantageous.

Salary on appointment will be within the range £29, 500 to £36, 060 per annum depending on qualifications and experience. This post is for a contract of 36 months in the first instance….

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Job details

Employer:John Innes Centre (JIC)

Website:http://www.jic.ac.uk/

Location:Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, East of England, United Kingdom

Expires:September 30, 2014

Job type:Postdoctoral

Salary:Unspecified

Qualifications:Postgraduate - Doctorate/PhD

Employment type:Contract

Job hours:Full-time