Postdoctoral Researcher

**THIS VACANCY MUST BE APPLIED FOR VIA THE NBI JOBS WEBSITE**

A Postdoctoral Researcher position is available to join the Schlimpert Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science in the field of Molecular Microbiology.

**About the John Innes Centre**:
The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial sciences. We nurture a creative, curiosity-led approach to answering fundamental questions in bioscience, and translate that knowledge into societal benefits. Our strategic vision, _Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet,_ sets out our ambitious long-term goals for the game changing impact of our science globally.

Our employees enjoy access to state-of-the-art technology and a diverse range of specialist training opportunities, including support for leadership and management. Click here to find out more about working at the John Innes Centre.

**About the Schlimpert Group**:
The successful applicant will be based in the Laboratory of Dr Susan Schlimpert. Research in the Schlimpert group focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that underpin cellular development and morphogenesis in actinobacteria. The group’s current research has several sub-objectives:

- Cell division in _Streptomyces _and _Mycobacteria_
- Regulation of bacterial multicellular development
- Functional diversity of NLRs in _Streptomyces_

The team maintains a vibrant and stimulating research atmosphere - currently consisting of two postdoctoral scientists with an additional postdoc joining in spring 2025, and two postgraduate students. We also regularly host projects for undergraduate students.

More information about the group can be found here.

**The role**:
We are looking for one Postdoc to work on a new ERC Consolidator Grant project BacNLR, which aims to unravel the functional diversity of NLR-like proteins in bacteria. The role is initially for three years with the potential to extend to up to five years.

The postholder will combine molecular microbiology, protein biochemistry, fluorescence microscopy, and metabolomics to demonstrate the role of NLR-like proteins in regulating antibiotic production and/or bacterial multicellular development and immunity in _Streptomyces_. We also aim to elucidate the structural basis of NLR protein complexes and their binding partners using cryo-electron microscopy.

This project will uncover new roles of NLR signalling pathways and provide an innovative experimental strategy to boost the production of medically important molecules.
- Proven ability to work with bacteria and skilled in molecular biology techniques
- High level of interest in understanding the molecular basis of NLR signalling in bacteria and its potential impact on the biology of _Streptomyces_
- Experience in protein biochemistry, fluorescence microscopy and/or metabolomics and/or structural biology
- Committed to research excellence with a demonstrated relevant publication track record in leading scientific journals
- A proven ability to conduct independent research, as well as to work effectively as a member of a research team
- Interest in mentoring and supervision of visitors and students

**Additional information**:
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 prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also 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._

**Job Types**: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 36 months

Pay: £36,720.00-£44,500.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee discount
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 18/11/2024
Reference ID: 1004789