Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed term)

Applications are invited for a Research Associate/Fellow on a project to validate and develop nitrogen fixing technologies to benefit small holder farmers. The project will be  in the laboratory of Professor Erik Murchie (Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, UK) and in close collaboration with LegumeTechnology (based in Nottingham, UK).

In this project we seek to investigate and then deploy methodologies to improve cereal nitrogen use efficiency for the benefit of small scale producers in sub-Saharan African countries with nitrogen-depleted soils. The project utilises free-living and associative symbiotic bacteria which have the ability to convert gaseous nitrogen from the air into usable compounds (biological nitrogen fixing capacity, BNF).  Pre-characterized strains will be screened to quantify and validate BNF capacity using a soil-plant system as primary screen. Nitrogen fixation assays will be developed and tested. the role holder will analyse physiological and molecular traits of inoculated plants. The role holder will work closely with the PI and industrial partner Legume Technologies toward the deployment of BNF technologies. We will target cereal species but may consider other crop types.

The successful candidate will also work in close collaboration with industrial partners and overseas producers. This post offers a unique opportunity to work in fast developing field of BNF technology (in the context of small holder producers) and to develop skills in state-of-the-art technologies.

Applicants must be highly motivated and self-driven, with a PhD in a plant related subject (PhD students about to submit their thesis in a relevant area will be considered). The successful candidate will ideally have considerable experience in some of the following areas: cereal growth, molecular sciences, genetics, physiology and nitrogen fixation. Experience of working in agricultural-related industry where product – orientation is a focus as an essential requirement. A track record of publishing research is desirable. Experience in molecular biology and associated techniques are relevant for the project. 

This is a full-time post (36.25 hours), available from 25th June or as soon as possible thereafter and will be offered on a fixed-term contract until 14th February 2027. Job share arrangements may be considered.

For informal enquiries please contact Erik Murchie (Erik.Murchie@nottingham.ac.uk) Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

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