Postdoctoral Researcher

Main Purpose of the Job

The purpose of this project is to conduct research into physiological and molecular processes of circadian rhythms in bacteria and plants. The project will involve experimental design, data collection from time-series experiments, interpretation of the data (including the use of computational tools), and presentation and preparation of findings for oral presentations and publication.

Key Relationships

Internal: Professor Antony Dodd (line manager), research group members, scientists and other scientific support staff at the JIC, and across the Norwich Research Park as needed.

External: International collaborators, particularly Professor Martha Merrow at LMU (Munich) and Professor Akos Kovacs at the Technical University of Denmark.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

**Percentage**

Identify, plan, carry out and modify experiments to meet the objectives of the project

25

Prepare and analyse results, reports and manuscripts for publication in leading scientific journals and other relevant media

20

10

Liaise closely with external international collaborators within the project

10

Contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, supervision of visitors to the laboratory and assisting with training others, whilst encouraging scientific excellence

10

As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, for example, contributing to the work of Institute committees

10

Continually strive for excellence, seeking out and acting on feedback and relevant learning and development opportunities

5

Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, scientific integrity and in compliance with local policies

5

Disseminate research findings through presentations to various audiences at internal, national and international meetings

5

As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, for example, contributing to the work of Institute committees

Person Profile

Education & Qualifications

**Requirement**
**Importance**

PhD (full award or expected within 6 months) or equivalent in chronobiology, plant biology, microbiology, molecular plant-microbe interactions or a related discipline

Essential

BSc or equivalent in the biological sciences

Essential

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

**Requirement**
**Importance**

Knowledge of the design and implementation of experiments to study circadian rhythms

Essential

Demonstrated expertise in molecular or cell biology, or microbiology

Essential

Knowledge of and experimental experience of studying molecular processes of plant-microbe interactions, microbiology or microbial ecology

Desirable

Knowledge and experimental experience of using Bacillus subtilis as a model system

Desirable

Relevant Experience

**Requirement**
**Importance**

Demonstrated ability to perform research in the field of chronobiology, or plant sciences, or microbiology

Essential

Proven track record in scientific writing and publication

Essential

Experience of oral research presentations

Essential

Experience of supervising, training and mentoring students and visitors

Essential

Preparation of data and related information to support grant proposals

Desirable

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

**Requirement**
**Importance**

Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to present complex information with clarity

Essential

Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a diverse team

Essential

Demonstrated ability to work independently, effectively and productively within a collaborative scientific research team

Essential

Excellent time management and organisational skills

Essential

Ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, nationally and internationally

Essential

Ability to follow instructions/standard operating procedures

Essential

Promotes and strives for continuous improvement

Essential

Additional Requirements

**Requirement**
**Importance**

Attention to detail

Essential

Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work

Essential

Able to present a positive image of self, the group, and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute

Essential

Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate

Essential

Willingness to work outside standard working hours (experimental and computer work) when required

Essential

Ability to undertake occasional travel (national and international) related to collaborations and/or seminars

Essential

Promotes equality and values diversity

Essential

Who We Are

John Innes Centre

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial genetics, carrying out fundamental and strategic