Research Assistant (Computational and Systems Biology + Cell & Developmental Biology)
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Assistant join the Molecular Microbiology Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science related to entrainment and adaptation to light and dark cycles.
About the John Innes Centre:
The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial sciences. We nurture a creative, curiosity-led approach to answering fundamental questions in bioscience, and translate that knowledge into societal benefits. Our strategic vision, Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet, sets out our ambitious long-term goals for the game changing impact of our science globally.
Our employees enjoy access to state-of-the-art technology and a diverse range of specialist training opportunities, including support for leadership and management. Click here to find out more about working at the John Innes Centre.
About the Group:
This project is a collaboration between Dr. Pirita Paajanen, in Computational and Systems Biology, and Dr. Luísa Jabbur, in Molecular Microbiology. Dr. Paajanen focuses, among other things, on how circadian clocks integrate cyclic environmental cues such as light/temperature cycles to keep in sync with their environment, while Dr. Jabbur is interested in how cyanobacteria use their circadian clocks and the environmental light/dark cycles to anticipate the seasons.
The role:
The Research Assistant will work on a project to leverage recent RNAseq data and create a library of transformed cyanobacteria with luciferase tags on several genes of interest. They will develop skills on bacterial transformation and on the quantification of gene expression through luciferase markers.
The ideal candidate:
Candidates should have a BSc in Biological Sciences, Microbiology or related disciplines. Previous experience working with bacteria is desired, but not essential. Good communication and organisation skills are required, as this position will require meticulous book-keeping of generated strains.
Additional information:
Further information and details on how to apply can be found here or by contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004960.
Interviews are scheduled to take place on 14 October 2025.
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.