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- Tasks: Conduct research on cell fate specification in petal development using Hibiscus trionum.
- Company: Join the Sainsbury Laboratory at Cambridge University, a hub for innovative plant biology research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative environment, mentoring opportunities, and family-friendly benefits.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team tackling ambitious biological questions with cutting-edge techniques.
- Qualifications: PhD in Plant Biology, Development, Molecular & Cell Biology or Genetics required.
- Other info: Full-time position starting 15 August 2025, with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the group of Dr Edwige Moyroud at the Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University. The successful candidate will conduct fundamental research aimed at investigating the mechanisms responsible for cell fate specification and differentiation during petal development using Hibiscus trionum as a model system. The post holder will combine genetic analysis and functional investigations in planta with a range of imaging techniques (including CryoSEM and confocal microscopy) to investigate the mechanisms allowing candidates genes previously identified by the Moyroud lab to specify distinct cell shapes across the petal epidermis. This post requires pro-active and creative candidates who thrive addressing broad and ambitious biological questions, seek to broaden their experimental skills and are enthusiastic about using multidisciplinary approaches to understand how plants can pattern their lateral organs to generate functional surfaces.
Candidates must have, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in either Plant Biology, Development, Molecular & Cell Biology or Genetics. The successful candidate will have advanced knowledge of, or experience in, classical and molecular genetic techniques, assays to investigate gene expression, diverse microscopy techniques (light, SEM/TEM, confocal¿etc), plant transformation and phenotypic analysis at cellular and tissular levels. Experience working with established plant model systems, alongside a willingness and ability to work with an emerging model species, is essential. Previous experience with image analysis, producing and/or analysing next-generation sequencing data (bulk RNAseq or single-nuclei/single-cell RNAseq), and knowledge of the mechanisms governing plant morphogenesis would also be advantageous.
The successful candidate will be fully involved in writing up their research work for presentation and publication and will be encouraged and supported in preparing applications for independent fellowships. The post holder will be required to assist in the supervision of student projects and deliver seminars relating to their research area. We also actively engage in interactive outreach activities with a broad audience and a clear interest in science communication is important. The Moyroud group is looking for a strong team player, keen to work in a highly collaborative set-up and enthusiastic to join a diverse and interdisciplinary team that draws on the different experiences of its members. Continuing to build an inclusive culture that supports, encourages and celebrates diverse voices is essential to us. We are looking for a new team member with strong interpersonal skills, keen to interact with group members, support staff and other researchers at SLCU from different backgrounds.
The Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment with a strong mentoring culture and offers a wide-range of development opportunities and family-friendly benefits. More about the Sainsbury Laboratory and details of what the University offers to employees can be found at: http://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/ .
Scientific enquiries apart from the formal application should be directed to Dr Edwige Moyroud at edwige.moyroud@slcu.cam.ac.uk . Please ensure that you upload a copy of your full CV including a list of publications, a covering letter highlighting your suitability for the position and contact information of three referees.
Where a PhD has yet to be awarded the appointment will initially be made at Research Assistant level and amended to Research Associate upon the award of PhD.
The post is full time and available from 15 August 2025.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 year in the first instance.
Click the \’Apply\’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
For questions regarding the application process, please email HR@slcu.cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference PT46739 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Further information
- PT46739 – Further Information
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Research Associate - Moyroud Group (Fixed Term) employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - Moyroud Group (Fixed Term)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the research conducted by Dr Edwige Moyroud and the Moyroud Group. Understanding their previous work on cell fate specification and petal development will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with their research goals during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former members of the Moyroud Group or the Sainsbury Laboratory. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which you can leverage to demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with genetic techniques and microscopy methods in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've applied these skills in your research, as this will showcase your technical expertise and enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your collaborative spirit and communication skills. Since the role involves working in a diverse and interdisciplinary team, be prepared to discuss instances where you've successfully collaborated with others and contributed to outreach activities or science communication efforts.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - Moyroud Group (Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the specific requirements and responsibilities of the Research Associate position. Pay attention to the skills and experiences they are looking for, such as knowledge in plant biology and microscopy techniques.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the job description. Include your educational background, research experience, and any publications that demonstrate your expertise in plant biology and genetic techniques.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly articulate why you are a suitable candidate for the position. Mention your enthusiasm for the research area, your collaborative spirit, and how your background aligns with the goals of the Moyroud group.
Prepare References: Select three referees who can vouch for your academic and research capabilities. Ensure they are aware of the position you are applying for and can provide insights into your skills and experiences relevant to the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Showcase Your Research Passion
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for plant biology and the specific research focus of the Moyroud group. Discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving genetic analysis or microscopy techniques, to demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to classical and molecular genetic techniques, as well as microscopy methods. Brush up on your knowledge of these areas and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in your previous work or studies.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Communication Skills
Since the role requires collaboration and outreach, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams and communicated complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences. This will show that you fit well within their inclusive culture.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the Moyroud group's current projects, future directions, and the lab's collaborative environment. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the lab is the right fit for you.
