Postdoctoral Researcher (Charpentier Group)

John Innes Centre; Norwich; On-site; GBP 37,000 - GBP 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute in Norwich is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate plant calcium signalling within the Charpentier Group. The successful candidate will explore molecular mechanisms and contribute to understanding plant-microbe interactions. This role requires a PhD in plant genetics or molecular biology, along with skills in plant signalling and a collaborative attitude. The position offers an interdisciplinary environment and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Family-friendly workplace

Diverse research environment

Support for visa applications

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in plant cell signalling.
• Strong background in genetics and molecular biology.
• Experience in proteomics is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Explore molecular mechanisms of calcium oscillation and endosymbiosis.
• Investigate regulatory networks in plant-microbe interactions.
• Assist in supervision and deliver seminars.

Skills

Plant cell signalling

Genetics

Molecular biology

Communication skills

Writing skills

Education

PhD in plant genetics or plant molecular biology

Job description

Overview

Salary: £37,500 – £45,350 per annum depending on qualifications and experience

Contract: 36 months, full-time

Location: John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK

Closing date: 27 February 2026

Reference: 1006041

The Charpentier Group and the role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Charpentier Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science in the field of plant calcium signalling.

The Charpentier group focuses on understanding the calcium signalling network controlling endosymbiotic interactions between soil microbes and crops. The project aims to characterize novel signalling processes that enable plant root endosymbiosis.

The role

Working as part of a team led by Prof. Myriam Charpentier, you will explore the molecular mechanisms underlying nuclear calcium oscillation decoding and the enhancement of root legume endosymbiosis. The successful applicant will creatively investigate the dynamics of regulatory networks at the interface of arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis and nitrogen-fixing bacteria colonization using genetics, molecular biology and cell biology approaches. You will benefit from a highly interdisciplinary and international environment with outstanding institutional support.

You will have the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment and develop your skills in areas of interest.

The ideal candidate

You will have or be close to finishing a PhD in plant genetics or plant molecular biology. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in plant cell signalling and have a strong background in genetics and molecular biology. Experience in proteomics is not essential but would be advantageous.

The post holder will work in a collegial, multidisciplinary, and interactive team. The candidate will assist in the supervision of students, deliver seminars, and be involved in writing up the research; therefore good communication and writing skills are essential.

Additional information

Interviews are planned for 17 March 2026.

For further information and details of how to apply, see the provided link or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or [e-mail] quoting reference 1006041.

This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Where the successful applicant requires a visa, we will fund the costs for their visa and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.

We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity. As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture and commitment to gender equality. We offer a stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family-friendly workplace. The Institute is a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.