Postdoctoral Researcher (Dr Miguel Montez)
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Wellcome Trust project led by Dr Miguel Montez and hosted within the Dodd Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science in the field of Molecular Biology.
The group
Dr Miguel Montez leads a five-year Wellcome Trust-funded project to establish his research group and pioneer studies on how the local 3D chromatin structure determines gene regulation and environmental responses. His project is hosted within the well-established and vibrant research environment of Prof Antony Dodd’s group (Head of Department) at the John Innes Centre.
Dr Montez brings deep expertise in studying molecular mechanisms that enable plants to fine-tune gene expression to sense and adapt to the environment. By joining his project, you will become part of an emerging, interdisciplinary, and highly collaborative team that values innovation and curiosity in uncovering new fundamental principles in biology. The Montez group is committed to supporting your scientific development, helping you develop high-impact research and achieve your career goals within a supportive and inspiring environment.
The role
The Postdoctoral Researcher will investigate chromatin organisation at a fine scale, with a particular focus on the dynamics, regulation, and biological functions of local chromatin structure in the context of how plants adapt to their environment.
The project will examine chromatin responses across multiple timescales, including those that occur during long-term temperature exposure (slow and stable) and circadian rhythms (fast and reversible).
While the position will contribute directly to the overarching goals of the project led by Dr Montez, the specific work plan will be tailored to the candidate’s skills, expertise, and aspirations. This approach ensures a strong alignment between achieving the project’s scientific objectives and fostering the Postdoctoral Researcher’s success and long-term career development.
The ideal candidate
The ideal candidate will possess (or soon complete) a PhD in Molecular Biology or a related area. They will be highly motivated and interested in chromatin biology. Prior experience using plants as a model organism is desirable but not essential. Good interpersonal and communication skills are required. They will be able to work independently and in collaboration.
Additional information
Interviews will be held on 19 December 2025.
Informal enquiries are welcome and should be addressed to Dr Miguel Montez (miguel-montez@jic.ac.uk).
For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our website http://jobs.jic.ac.uk or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004993.
This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Where the successful applicant requires a visa, we will fund the costs for their visa and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.
We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity. As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.
The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.