Research Associate/Fellow in Root–Soil Interactions and Molecular Biology

School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham

Project: UKRI ‘GROUNDBREAKING’

Applications are invited for a Research Associate/Fellow to join the UKRI-funded project GROUNDBREAKING, which aims to uncover how plant roots sense and penetrate hard soils. Building on our recent discoveries (Mingyuan et al., Nature, 2025; Jiao et al., Nature, 2025), this project will identify novel genes and regulatory pathways that enable roots to perceive and respond to hard soil environments. We are especially interested in candidates eager to explore the interface between cell wall mechanics and soil physical properties applying spatial gene regulation to understand root biomechanics.

This position is ideally suited to a highly motivated and independent researcher with a strong interest in spatial gene regulation, root–soil interactions, and molecular cell biology.

Applicants must hold (or be nearing completion of) a PhD in molecular biology, plant biology, or a related discipline. Candidates close to submitting their PhD thesis in root or cell biology will also be considered.

Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:

• Root biology, cell or developmental biology
• Molecular biology approaches (e.g., single-cell or spatial transcriptomics, protein–DNA interactions)
• Cellular and confocal imaging
• Hormone signalling pathways
• Experience working with rice or Arabidopsis is advantageous
• A track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals

Further Details

• Hours: Full time (36.25 hours per week)
• Start date: Available immediately
• Contract: Fixed term for 3 years
• Location: Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham

For more information about our research group, please visit: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/biosciences/people/bipin.pandey

Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr Bipin Pandey (bipin.pandey@nottingham.ac.uk). Please note: applications submitted to this email address will not be accepted.

Salary: £31,387 to £46,485 per annum, pro rata depending on skills and experience (minimum £35608 with relevant PhD). Salary progression beyond this scale is subject to performance.

Location: Sutton Bonington

Area: Plant & Crop Sciences

Job Ref: SCI833426