Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Department of Biology at the University of is currently seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join an international team of researchers in the UK, US and Germany (Gail Preston (Oxford), Neha Potnis (Auburn), Courtney Leisner (Virginia Tech)) and Thomas Lahaye (Tübingen)) to investigate the effect of fluctuating temperatures on the outcome and evolution of plant-pathogen interactions. We are applying an integrated approach that combines understanding of pathogen biology and plant immunity to inform the development of climate-resilient crops, using the interaction of bacterial pathogens with tomato and pepper as model systems. Work in Oxford will build on our extensive experience in studying bacterial virulence mechanisms and the role of the plant microenvironment in disease development. The Preston lab is highly interdisciplinary and collaborative and co-located with a dynamic cluster of research groups studying plant biology, microbiology and plant-microbe interactions. 

You will hold, or be close to completion of a relevant PhD. You will manage your own academic research, effectively coordinating multiple strands of work. Direct experience in molecular genetics and/or plant-microbe interactions, including the generation and analysis of complex datasets is desirable. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication and represent the research group at meetings are essential. You will be encouraged to develop your ideas, engage with professional development opportunities, gain experience in mentoring and collaboration and be supported to progress to the next stage in your career.

The University of Oxford is committed to equality and valuing diversity. All applicants will be judged on merit, according to the selection criteria. Where Covid-19 or other extenuating factors have resulted in substantial disruption to your work or research outputs, please explain this by providing an additional paragraph in your supporting statement.

This post is full time and available immediately.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Thursday 7th August, interviews are likely to be scheduled for late August.