"Research Associate (Fixed Term)"

Applications are invited for a post-doctoral research associate in Presymbiotic Signalling to work with Prof Uta Paszkowski at the Crop Science Centre, starting between 1 October and 1 November 2025.

The beneficial interaction of plants with endomycorrhizal fungi commences via mutual recognition in the rhizosphere. We identified a receptor complex that is required for perception of beneficial fungi by plants [Gutjahr, Gobbato et al., Science (2015), Choi et al., Nat Commun 2020], and also for plant development. Recent data suggest that this signalling pathway integrates plant nutrient status with the competence to engage with the beneficial fungi, integrating systemic and local signalling cues. In the projected work, a set of single cell technologies will be used to investigate the interplay between nutrient and symbiosis signalling at cellular resolution in rice.

Applicants must have a solid background in plant genetics and genomics, and be proficient in bioinformatics for large data analysis; available knowledge in plant physiology would be advantageous.

To apply, please email a CV, publications list, a CHRIS/6 (parts I and III only) and the names and contact details (including email addresses) of 3 referees to Prof Paszkowski at up220@cam.ac.uk. More information and forms can be found at: http://www.plantsci.cam.ac.uk/jobs/index.html

The closing date for applications is 14 September 2025.

This appointment is subject to a health assessment. Whether an outcome is satisfactory will be determined by the University. The University values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 25 months in the first instance.