Postdoctoral Research Associate
Company: Royal Holloway University of London
Salary: from £42,150 a year
Hours: Full-time
Location: Surrey, TW20 0EX
Working pattern: On-site
Job type: Contract
Posting date: 30 Oct 2026
Full-Time, Fixed-Term to 30 November 2028
Applications are invited for the post of Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Biological Sciences.
About the Role. We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Department of Biological Sciences at Royal Holloway, University of London, working with Professor Alessandra Devoto, in collaboration with SYNGENTA Jealott’s Hill, on the exciting research project “Plant Cell Libraries”. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative research in plant synthetic biology and metabolic engineering, focusing on the development and characterisation of engineered plant cell cultures and whole plants. The successful candidate will lead experimental research using physiological, biochemical, imaging and multi-omics approaches, applying iterative design–build–test–learn strategies to advance plant engineering. Working collaboratively within a dynamic research environment, the post holder will contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations and the wider development of the research programme.
In return we offer a highly competitive rewards and benefits package including:
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Training and Development opportunities
- Pension Scheme with generous employer contribution
- Various schemes including Cycle to Work, Season Ticket Loans and help with the cost of Eyesight testing
- Free parking
The post is based in Egham, Surrey where the University is situated, near to Windsor Great Park and within commuting distance from London.
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Prof Alessandra Devoto on Alessandra.Devoto@rhul.ac.uk or +44 (0)1784 443184.
For queries on the application process the Human Resources Department can be contacted by email at: recruitment@rhul.ac.uk
Please quote the reference: 1026-357
Closing Date: 23:59, 13 November 2026
Interview Date: 18 November 2026 (due to the timescales we are unable to accommodate changes to this date)
Start date: 1 December 2026
Right to work: Please note that it will not be possible for the University to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship to the successful candidate for this position. Therefore, the appointable candidate will need to be eligible to work in the UK or have leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with the University, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.
Essential requirements
Qualifications, knowledge, skills and experience. You will have a PhD (or be close to completion) in Plant Biology, Synthetic Biology, Metabolic Engineering, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or a related discipline, together with a strong research background in plant molecular cell biology and plant in vitro culture. You will have practical experience in plant cell and tissue culture, genetic transformation, selection and screening, and molecular cloning techniques, alongside skills in experimental design, data analysis and interpretation. Experience in preparing biological samples for high-throughput genomics, microscopy and related bioinformatics analyses would be advantageous. You will also demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong organisational and time management abilities, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively. Your ability to maintain accurate research records, present complex scientific information to different audiences and support the mentoring of students and colleagues will be important to the successful delivery of the project.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme
About Disability Confident Disability Confident is a government scheme. It encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with long term health conditions.
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Postdoctoral Research Associate in Egham employer: Royal Holloway, University of London
Royal Holloway, University of London is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, prioritising respect, innovation, and diversity. With a strong commitment to employee development, the university offers generous benefits, including flexible working arrangements, extensive training opportunities, and a supportive environment for research and teaching excellence. Located in the picturesque Egham, Surrey, employees enjoy a beautiful campus setting while being conveniently close to London, enhancing both professional and personal life.
Contact Details:
Royal Holloway, University of London Recruitment Team
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