At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in plant synthetic biology and metabolic engineering.
- Company: Royal Holloway, University of London, collaborating with SYNGENTA.
- Benefits: Generous leave, training opportunities, pension scheme, and free parking.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth and mentoring opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge plant research and development.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in relevant biological sciences with strong research skills.
The predicted salary is between 32963 - 40289 £ per year.
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.
Full-Time, Fixed-Term to 30 November 2028
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.
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.
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.
Postdoctoral Research Associate 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
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Royal Holloway, University of London. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Royal Holloway, University of London!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Royal Holloway, University of London that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Royal Holloway, University of London.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Royal Holloway, University of London does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Holloway, University of London
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Royal Holloway, University of London. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Royal Holloway, University of London's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Royal Holloway, University of London. This shows your passion for the industry!
