Job Summary Table of Plant Biology Research Positions

Job Description Summary

The Bartlett lab at the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University, is seeking two Research Assistants or Associates to join their team in exploring the developmental and evolutionary processes underpinning plant diversity. This exciting opportunity offers the chance to work on cutting-edge research in plant biology, focusing on either sex determination or awn evolution in plants.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on plant developmental biology and evolutionary processes
• Explore morphological and molecular evolution using various techniques
• Collaborate with team members and contribute to publications
• Present research findings at conferences and seminars
• Assist in supervising students (if applicable)
• Contribute to the lab’s ongoing projects on sex determination or awn evolution
• Participate in deciding the direction of your project with Dr. Bartlett
• Lead publications related to your research area
• Engage in science communication activities

Benefits and Perks

• Collaborative and welcoming work environment
• Wide range of family-friendly benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities
• Opportunity to work with leading experts in plant biology
• Potential for career advancement in academic research

Company Overview

The Sainsbury Laboratory at Cambridge University is a world-renowned research institute dedicated to advancing our understanding of plant development and evolution. The Bartlett lab, led by Dr. Madelaine Bartlett, focuses on identifying genes that regulate plant development and connecting molecular evolution to the evolution of plant form.

Company Culture

The Sainsbury Laboratory fosters a collaborative and inclusive research environment. Researchers are encouraged to pursue innovative ideas and engage in cross-disciplinary collaborations. The lab values open communication, teamwork, and a passion for scientific discovery.

Career Growth Opportunities

Joining the Bartlett lab offers excellent opportunities for career growth in plant biology research. Researchers can develop expertise in cutting-edge techniques, contribute to high-impact publications, and build a strong foundation for a career in academia or industry.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

The Sainsbury Laboratory and Cambridge University are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse work environment. They actively support equality and encourage applications from all sections of society, valuing the unique perspectives and contributions of researchers from diverse backgrounds.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Cambridge is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

Remote Work Policy

This position requires on-site work at the Sainsbury Laboratory in Cambridge, UK. However, the lab may offer flexibility for certain tasks or situations, depending on the nature of the research and project requirements.

Application Process

1. Review the job description and requirements carefully
2. Prepare your CV and a motivational letter
3. Apply online through the University of Cambridge job portal
4. If shortlisted, participate in interviews and potentially give a research presentation
5. Undergo reference checks and other necessary procedures

Application Deadline

Info not available

How to Apply

To apply for this position, click the ‘Apply’ button on the job posting page. You will need to register an account with the recruitment system if you haven’t already done so. Please include a motivational letter with your application, stating which research direction you’d prefer to focus on (sex determination or awns), your research interests and expertise, and how they align with the lab’s work.

Social Media Links

• Sainsbury Laboratory Twitter
• University of Cambridge LinkedIn

FAQs or Additional Information

Q: What are the key research areas of the Bartlett lab?

A: The Bartlett lab focuses on the evolution of sex determination and the development of floral organ elaborations called awns.

Q: Is prior experience in grass transformation required?

A: While expertise in grass transformation is particularly welcomed, it is not a strict requirement. The lab values candidates with a strong foundation in molecular biology and plant developmental biology, with a willingness to gain expertise in new areas.

Q: What is the duration of the position?

A: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance, with the possibility of extension depending on funding and performance.

Q: When is the position available?

A: The post is available from October 2024.

Q: What if I haven’t completed my PhD yet?

A: If you are close to obtaining your PhD, you can still apply. The initial appointment will be at the Research Assistant level (Grade 5) and will be amended to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon the award of your PhD.

Plant Biology Research: Explore Evolutionary Processes at Cambridge

The Bartlett lab at the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University, is at the forefront of plant biology research, unraveling the mysteries of plant development and evolution. As part of their ongoing efforts to understand the intricate processes that shape plant diversity, they are now seeking two talented Research Assistants or Associates to join their dynamic team.

This exciting opportunity allows researchers to delve into the fascinating world of plant developmental genetics and evolutionary biology. The positions offer the chance to work on cutting-edge projects focused on either sex determination in plants or the evolution of floral organ elaborations known as awns. Both of these research areas have significant implications for crop productivity and our understanding of plant morphological diversification.

Innovative Research in Plant Developmental Biology

The Bartlett lab’s research is centered on identifying the genes that regulate plant development and describing their evolutionary histories. By connecting molecular evolution to the evolution of plant form, the lab aims to provide insights into the fundamental processes that drive plant diversity.

Recent publications from the lab, such as Gallagher et al. (2023) and Klein et al. (2022), have made significant contributions to our understanding of sex determination in plants. Additionally, work by Schrager-Lavelle et al. (2017) and Patterson et al. (2023, 2024) has shed light on the evolution of awns, which are important features in many grass species.

Cutting-Edge Techniques and Collaborative Environment

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to employ a wide range of techniques in their research, including:

• Molecular biology
• Comparative anatomy and morphology
• Evolutionary genomics
• Phylogenetic comparative methods
• Quantitative phenotyping
• Microscopy

The Sainsbury Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support groundbreaking research. Researchers will have the chance to work alongside leading experts in the field and contribute to high-impact publications.

Career Development and Growth Opportunities

These positions offer excellent opportunities for career advancement in plant biology research. Successful candidates will:

• Lead their own research projects under the guidance of Dr. Bartlett
• Contribute to scientific publications
• Present findings at conferences and seminars
• Potentially supervise students

The lab encourages professional development and provides support for researchers to expand their skills and expertise. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a career in academia or industry, this position will provide a solid foundation for future success in plant biology research.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The Bartlett lab is looking for enthusiastic researchers with:

• A PhD (or near completion) in Plant Biology, Genetics, Evolutionary Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field
• Strong foundations in molecular biology and plant developmental biology
• Expertise in one or more of the lab’s experimental systems or techniques
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills
• A track record of science communication and publications in plant biology

While not required, expertise in grass transformation is particularly valued. Proficiency in molecular cloning, genomics, bioinformatics, comparative anatomy, phylogenetic methods, or image analysis would also be beneficial.

Join a World-Class Research Institution

The Sainsbury Laboratory at Cambridge University is renowned for its contributions to plant science. By joining the Bartlett lab, you’ll become part of a prestigious institution committed to advancing our understanding of plant biology and its applications in agriculture and beyond.

The laboratory offers a range of family-friendly benefits and development opportunities, ensuring a supportive work environment for all researchers. Cambridge University’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion means that you’ll be part of a diverse and inclusive research community.

Application Process and Next Steps

Interested candidates should submit their applications through the University of Cambridge job portal. Be sure to include a comprehensive CV and a motivational letter outlining your research interests, expertise, and how they align with the Bartlett lab’s work.

For more information about the lab and its research, visit the Bartlett Group website. If you have specific scientific inquiries, you can contact Dr. Bartlett directly at mb2705@cam.ac.uk.

Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in plant biology at one of the world’s leading universities. Apply now and take the next step in your research career!

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