Research Fellow in Molecular Seed Science

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Are you an ambitious researcher looking for your next challenge? Do you have an established background in molecular seed biology? Do you want to further your career in one of the UKs leading research-intensive Universities?

Seeds underpin sustainable agriculture and food security, providing the majority of global food. This project will use new data on seed genome stress responses to develop novel markers for seed quality. Genetic, biochemical and high throughput analytical approaches will enable the development of sensitive, robust and high throughput markers applicable to a broad range of crop species. You will use your experience as a seed biologist and skills in molecular analysis of seed quality to design novel assays based on key germination performance indicators for testing in commercial seed lots. The short duration of the project will require someone with proven skills in analysis of gene expression, protein chemistry, seed physiology and DNA damage responses, supported by relevant high impact publications and an international profile in molecular seed biology. 

For this role, you should have a PhD (or close to completion) in Seed Biochemistry or Molecular Biology or a closely allied discipline. You should have experience in:  molecular, biochemical and physiological analysis of seed germination; DNA repair in plants; the molecular analysis of seed longevity; immunological analysis of seed proteins; and omics approaches including both transcriptomics and proteomics. You should also have knowledge, insight and experience of seed testing, and a detailed understanding of the molecular factors that determine seed vigour.

The University of Leeds and the Faculty of Biological Sciences are committed to providing equal opportunities for all and offer a range of family friendly policies. The University is a charter member of Athena SWAN (the national body that promotes gender equality in higher education), and the Faculty of Biological Sciences was awarded a Silver award in 2020.  We are proud to be an inclusive Faculty that values all staff, and are happy to consider job share applications and requests for flexible working arrangements from our employees. Our Athena SWAN webpage provides more information. 

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact: 

Dr. Chris West , Senior Lecturer 

Tel: +44 (0)113 343 2915

Email: [email protected]  

Location:  Leeds – Main Campus
Faculty/Service:  Faculty of Biological Sciences
School/Institute:  School of Biology
Category:  Research
Grade: 
Grade 7
Salary: 

£37,099 to £44,263
per annum
Working Time:  37.5 hours
Post Type: 

Full Time
Contract Type:  Fixed Term (for 5 months (external funding))
Release Date:  Wednesday 22 November 2023
Closing Date:  Monday 04 December 2023
Reference:  FBSBY1184
Downloads:  Candidate Brief