Postdoctoral Researcher

Hours per week 37 Project Title Directing triterpenoid biosynthesis for pharmaceutical applications Months Duration 36

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the laboratory of Professor Anne Osbourn. The role will work on investigating the structure-function relationships of triterpenoid biosynthetic enzymes and on using this knowledge to unlock and expand accessible chemical space.

The successful applicant will be line-managed by Professor Anne Osbourn and based at the John Innes Centre.

Percentage Investigate the diversity and structure-function relationships of key enzyme superfamilies required for triterpenoid biosynthesis; carry out combinatorial biosynthesis in Nicotiana benthamiana 50 Generate mutant variants of selected enzymes in order to unlock and expand on available triterpenoid biosynthetic space 30 Prepare manuscripts for publication in scientific journals; also disseminate research findings through presentations 10 Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, scientific integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements 5 As agreed with line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post 5

Requirement Importance PhD (full award or expected within 6 months) or equivalent in natural product chemistry, metabolic biology, synthetic biology or a related discipline Essential

Requirement Importance Molecular biology, vector construction Essential Biochemistry, metabolic biology Essential Natural products research Essential Enzymology and structural biology Desirable

Requirement Importance Demonstrated experience of analysis of plant biosynthetic enzymes, including genome mining, phylogenetics, molecular and synthetic biology, and analytical natural product chemistry Essential Demonstrated ability to perform research and develop novel ideas Essential Proven record in scientific writing Essential Preparing data / information for grant proposals Essential Knowledge of enzymology and structural biology Desirable Experience of preparative natural product chemistry Desirable

Requirement Importance Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to present complex information with clarity Essential Ability to follow instructions/Standard Operating Procedures Essential Demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills Essential Excellent time management and organisational skills Essential Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a team Essential Promotes and strives for continuous improvement Essential

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 Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate Essential Willingness to work outside standard working hours when required Essential Promotes equality and values diversity Essential Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute Essential

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial genetics, carrying out fundamental and strategic research, to train scientists and making our findings available to society.

Our research makes use of a wide range of disciplines in the biological and chemical sciences including; cell biology, biochemistry, chemistry, genetics and molecular biology.

We pride ourselves on being a welcoming and inclusive working environment for all. We have a diverse and multicultural scientific community and thrive on our European and international links, appointing staff from across the world. Any candidate who would like further information on current or anticipated immigration requirements can contact the HR Team on or

We are proud to hold a prestigious Athena SWAN Gold award , recognising the impact of our work in promoting gender equality in science. We are also a proud member of the Stonewall Diversity Champion’s programme , a founding signatory of the Tecnician Commitment and, as a Disability Confident employer, guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852), limited by guarantee (registered in England No. 511709).

Biochemistry and Metabolism

Researchers within the Department of Biochemistry and Metabolism investigate the structure and function of biological macromolecules and fundamental aspects of plant and microbial metabolism. They aim to understand the mechanisms underpinning…