Applications are invited for a Research Assistant position in the group of Dr Alexander Jones at the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University – https://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/research/jones-group
The cellular dynamics of the plant metabolites underpin plant development and environmental responses. The Jones group at SLCU have extensive experience in probing the functional relationships between metabolites and plant developmental plasticity. The team has engineered a series of high affinity FRET biosensors to track plant hormone dynamics in high resolution, but many metabolites either have no biosensors, existing biosensors that have not been optimised for plants, or existing biosensors in need of improvements or diversification. This post will involve supporting the molecular cloning for a portfolio of cutting-edge biosensor engineering and optimisation projects. The advanced biosensors that will be the output of this role will illuminate previously undetectable cellular and subcellular metabolite patterns in vivo. The position will also take on a leading role in standardising gene parts, other components and procedures to build a ‘Biosensor Foundry’ that will be shared with the broader community to accelerate the single cell biology revolution.
Applicants must have or be close to obtaining a degree in Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Systems Biology, Genetics, or related field. A solid foundation in molecular biology and in particular gene cloning is strictly required, alongside a willingness and ability to learn and work with new methodologies. We particularly welcome candidates with advanced knowledge of, and a proven track record in, any of the following cloning techniques and concepts: Golden-gate, MoClo, Golden-braid, Mobius, Phytobricks, Gateway, Multi-site Gateway, Error-prone PCR. Additional techniques that would be of added value are FACS, Sort-seq, plant protoplast transfection, Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression, and Arabidopsis thaliana transformation and husbandry. Proficiency in structural biology, plant developmental biology, synthetic biology, protein bioengineering, computational modelling, and confocal imaging and image analysis would also be valuable to the role, but are not essential.
The successful applicant will be an excellent team player, highly solution orientated and self-motivated. Excellent interpersonal skills are essential, alongside the ability to work independently and with others, with a high degree of accuracy including outstanding record keeping. The Jones group is looking for a person keen to work in a highly collaborative set-up and enthusiastic to join our diverse and interdisciplinary team. Solid communication skills are required to interact with group members and other researchers at SLCU with different scientific backgrounds. Candidates should also demonstrate a history of science communication (e.g. presentations, outreach activities, teaching).
The Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment with a wide-range of family-friendly benefits and development opportunities. More about the Sainsbury Laboratory and details of what the University offers to employees, can be found at: http://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/
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 apart from the formal application should be directed to Dr Jones at alexander.jones@slcu.cam.ac.uk
Enquiries about the application process can be directed to hr@slcu.cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference PT38228 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.
Further information
DEPARTMENT/LOCATION
SALARY
£29,605-£33,966
REFERENCE
PT38228
CATEGORY
PUBLISHED
25 August 2023
CLOSING DATE
17 September 2023