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- Tasks: Explore plant-fungal-soil interactions using cutting-edge technologies in a dynamic research environment.
- Company: Lancaster University, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and collaboration with top scientists.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ecosystem resilience while advancing your research skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in research and a passion for environmental science.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and enjoy excellent training opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 39906 - 46049 £ per year.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £39,906 to £46,049
Full time, Fixed Term
Closing Date: Tuesday 31 March 2026
Interview Date: Friday 24 April 2026
Reference: 0085-26
Overview
Recent discoveries have revealed that grassland plants form symbioses with a much broader range of fungi than previously thought, notably Mucoromycotina 'fine root endophytes' (MFRE), which co-occur alongside more commonly described arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. This exciting project seeks to disentangle the roles of both MFRE and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in providing key ecosystem functions and resilience to grasslands. The project will use a suite of cutting‑edge technologies (e.g. stable isotope tracers) applied to field, greenhouse and laboratory experiments to advance our understanding of the diversity and function of these 'hidden' root‑associated fungal networks.
The Senior Research Associate, together with an associated technician and a PhD student, will be based at Lancaster University within the research group led by Prof David Johnson, in the newly formed Centre for Sustainable soils. The project is part of a prestigious Royal Society Faraday Discovery Fellowship led by Prof Katie Field at the University of Sheffield and in collaboration with Silvia Pressel at the Natural History Museum in London, offering superb opportunities for training and development, and interaction with a large team of scientists across institutions.
Person Specification
The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues. We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
Senior Research Associate: Plant-fungal-soil interactions - 0085-26 employer: Lancaster University
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate: Plant-fungal-soil interactions - 0085-26
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Lancaster University or related institutions. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the project details. Familiarise yourself with the latest research on MFRE and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Showing genuine interest will impress the panel!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to teamwork and collaboration. We want to highlight how well we can work with the technician and PhD student in this role.
✨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 you’re serious about joining the team at Lancaster University.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate: Plant-fungal-soil interactions - 0085-26
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with plant-fungal-soil interactions. We want to see how your skills align with the exciting research project, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant experiences!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for the subject shine through in your written application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about advancing our understanding of ecosystems, so share what drives you in this field!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. Make it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can consider you for this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Fungi
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of plant-fungal-soil interactions, especially the roles of Mucoromycotina and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Being able to discuss recent discoveries and their implications will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Cutting-Edge Technologies
Since the project involves advanced technologies like stable isotope tracers, it’s crucial to understand how these methods work and their applications in research. Prepare to discuss any relevant experience you have with similar techniques or express your eagerness to learn.
✨Highlight Collaborative Skills
This role involves working closely with a technician and a PhD student, so be ready to share examples of successful teamwork from your past experiences. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and contribute to a collaborative research environment.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Training and Development
The position offers superb opportunities for training and development, so express your enthusiasm for continuous learning. Discuss any specific areas you’re keen to develop further and how they align with the goals of the research group.