Postdoctoral Researcher; Carella Group

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Carella Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting‑edge science in the field of Evo-MPMI (Evolutionary Molecular Plant‑Microbe Interactions).

We are a curious, enthusiastic, and innovative research group exploring the diversity of defence responses that evolved to protect land plants from pathogen infection. Using comparative macroevolutionary and molecular genetic approaches, our group explores widely‑distributed and lineage‑specific aspects of immunity that will inform future efforts to protect plants from harmful pathogens.

Working as part of a team led by Phil Carella, you will perform key experiments aimed at identifying and understanding immune processes that evolved in divergent land plants like the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha. The role will provide you with a broad range of stimulating activities, including:

• Molecular dissection of lineage‑specific immune receptors/modules
• Synthetic biology approaches to engineer novel immune mechanisms in plants
• Experience with a wide range of plant pathogenic microbes.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills in the emerging field of Evo‑MPMI (evolutionary molecular plant‑microbe interactions). You will also work with world leading scientists who are experts in their field.

You will have a PhD in Molecular Biology and/or Biochemistry. You will have in‑depth knowledge of organismal immunity, a general understanding of evolution, and demonstrable experience in molecular biology/microbiology.

Further information and details of how to apply can be found here or contact the Human Resources team on or  quoting reference 1005010. 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 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.

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