Postdoctoral Researcher - Plant Biochemist in Nitrogen Fixation - PBI
Postdoctoral Researcher - Plant Biochemist in Nitrogen Fixation - PBI

Postdoctoral Researcher - Plant Biochemist in Nitrogen Fixation - PBI

Full-Time 40000 - 50000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
Ellison Institute of Technology

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join us to engineer nitrogen fixation in crops and enhance global food production.
  • Company: Ellison Institute of Technology, a leader in transformative scientific research.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, enhanced holiday, private medical insurance, and professional development opportunities.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for career growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real-world impact on sustainable agriculture and climate change through innovative plant science.
  • Qualifications: PhD in relevant discipline with expertise in plant biochemistry and nitrogen fixation.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 ÂŁ per year.

Join us at EIT: At the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), we're on a mission to translate scientific discovery into real world impact. We bring together visionary scientists, technologists, engineers, researchers, educators and innovators to tackle humanity's greatest challenges in four transformative areas: Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture, Climate Change & Managing CO2, Artificial Intelligence & Robotics. This is ambitious work - work that demands curiosity, courage, and a relentless drive to make a difference.

Welcome to the Plant Biology Institute: The Plant Biology Institute, headed by Professor Steve Kelly, is a key part of the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) Oxford. The institute aims to develop impactful and commercially sustainable solutions for improving global food production and planetary health through pioneering plant science research. The Plant Biology Institute will unite world‑class researchers who are focused on expanding the frontiers of plant science. Our research is focused on enhancing our ability to feed the planet while simultaneously improving the climate and ecosystem outcomes of food production.

Your Role: The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Researcher in Plant Biochemistry to join its pioneering Plant Biology Institute to contribute to the 'Biological Nitrogen Fixation' program. This initiative seeks to engineer biological nitrogen fixation into widely grown crop plants to improve yields and reduce global reliance on synthetic fertilisers. The ultimate goal of this work will be to deliver transformative environmental, economic, and public health benefits by helping to support the transition to scalable and regenerative agricultural systems.

Your Responsibilities: The Postdoctoral Researcher will play a key role in designing and conducting experiments aligned with stage‑gated milestones in our plant engineering program. The main responsibilities of the successful candidate will be to optimize the folding, stability, assembly, and functional activity of complex enzymatic systems in plant cells using both transient and stable plant transformation approaches. Successful delivery of these research objectives will require expertise in in‑silico protein analysis and structural modelling, mass spectrometry‑based proteomic analyses (e.g., LC‑MS, LC‑MS/MS), nitrogen fixation assays (e.g., using the acetylene reduction method), and a strong foundation in plant molecular biology and biochemistry.

Additional Responsibilities: Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to incorporate cutting‑edge research techniques into experiments. Present scientific work at seminars within the lab and at external meetings, including contributing to laboratory‑wide discussions on developments within the field. Assist in mentoring graduate students and other members of the research group where appropriate. Draft scientific papers and contribute to preparation of publications. Recognise and act on opportunities for the creation of IP and cooperate in patent protection and in impact delivery.

Requirements Essential Skills, Qualifications & Experience: Completed PhD in a relevant discipline. Strong research background and competency in relevant research skills or areas for the post. Examples include: Demonstrated experience in in‑silico protein analysis, including structural modelling, domain architecture prediction, and identification of signal peptides, processing sites, and post‑translational modification motifs. Demonstrated experience in mass spectrometry‑based proteomic analyses (e.g., LC‑MS and LC‑MS/MS), including sample preparation and proteolytic digestion, quantitative peptide profiling, site‑specific post‑translational modification mapping, and validation of cofactor maturation and incorporation into target proteins.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience: Demonstrated expertise in enzyme structure‑guided rational protein engineering or directed evolution.

Benefits: Salary dependent on experience + travel allowance + bonus. Enhanced holiday + options to buy additional days. Pension, Life Assurance, Income Protection, Private Medical Insurance, Hospital Cash Plan, Therapy Services, Perk Box, Electric Car Scheme, Childcare benefit.

What we offer: Newly constructed, state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and growth facilities. A collaborative research environment with highly skilled team working at the cutting edge of plant science to create commercially sustainable solutions that tackle humanity's biggest challenges, including enabling sustainable agriculture and improving the climate and ecosystem outcomes of food production. Opportunities for professional development including publication, conferences, spin‑out generation, and leadership development.

Required Application Materials: Two letters of reference.

Postdoctoral Researcher - Plant Biochemist in Nitrogen Fixation - PBI employer: Ellison Institute of Technology

At the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and excellence in plant science research. Our state-of-the-art facilities in Oxford provide researchers with the resources needed to make significant contributions to global challenges, while our commitment to professional development ensures that employees have ample opportunities for growth and advancement. Join us to be part of a purpose-driven community dedicated to translating scientific discoveries into real-world impact, all while enjoying competitive benefits and a supportive environment.
Ellison Institute of Technology

Contact Detail:

Ellison Institute of Technology Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Researcher - Plant Biochemist in Nitrogen Fixation - PBI

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at EIT and the Plant Biology Institute. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the culture and what they really value in candidates.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by diving deep into their recent research. Show us that you’re not just familiar with their work but genuinely excited about how your skills can contribute to their mission of tackling global challenges.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your background in plant biochemistry aligns with their goals, especially around nitrogen fixation. We want to hear how you can make a real-world impact!

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our innovative team at EIT.

We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Researcher - Plant Biochemist in Nitrogen Fixation - PBI

In-silico Protein Analysis
Structural Modelling
Mass Spectrometry-based Proteomic Analyses
Nitrogen Fixation Assays
Enzyme Assay Development
Molecular Biology Techniques
Experimental Design
Data Analysis
Statistical Evaluation
Collaboration Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Communication Skills
Report Writing Skills
High-throughput Laboratory Techniques
Fluorescent Reporters Usage

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Postdoctoral Researcher role. Highlight your relevant experience in plant biochemistry and nitrogen fixation, and show us how your skills align with our mission at EIT.

Showcase Your Research Skills: We want to see your expertise in action! Include specific examples of your research projects, especially those involving in-silico protein analysis or mass spectrometry. This will help us understand your hands-on experience and how you can contribute to our team.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the point while showcasing your passion for plant science.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the Plant Biology Institute.

How to prepare for a job interview at Ellison Institute of Technology

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of biological nitrogen fixation and plant biochemistry. Be ready to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the role. Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in the field, as this will show your genuine interest and commitment.

✨Showcase Your Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your expertise in in-silico protein analysis, mass spectrometry, and enzyme assays. Bring examples of your work or be ready to discuss specific projects where you've applied these skills. This will help the interviewers see how you can contribute to their ambitious goals.

✨Collaborative Spirit

EIT values collaboration, so be prepared to talk about your experience working in multidisciplinary teams. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others, mentored students, or contributed to group projects. Highlighting your teamwork skills will resonate well with their culture.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions about the Plant Biology Institute's current projects and future directions. This shows that you're not only interested in the position but also in how you can contribute to their mission. Asking about their approach to translating research into real-world solutions can spark a great conversation.

Postdoctoral Researcher - Plant Biochemist in Nitrogen Fixation - PBI
Ellison Institute of Technology

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