Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

We are recruiting for a research assistant based at the OpenPlant Laboratory in Cambridge in the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Cambridge, and directed by Prof. Jim Haseloff.

The appointee will help develop new approaches to bioproduction in the model liverwort plant Marchantia polymorpha. Work with Marchantia allows streamlined approaches to genome modification, cell dynamics and morphogenetic engineering. The planned work includes use of a collection of synthetic gene elements designed for engineering the Marchantia chloroplast genome. These allow hyper-expression of proteins in transgenic plants, and we are developing hydroponic systems for large-scale, soil-free propagation of plants, and low-cost downstream processing of plant extracts for purification of recombinant proteins at scale. We are looking for a highly motivated appointee to work in this area. The position is available as a full-time position until the 13th of February 2026.

The successful candidate will have a background in plant molecular biology or synthetic biology, including work experience or a degree in a relevant area. Experience with plant culture, DNA manipulation, plant molecular biology or microscopy will be advantageous.

OpenPlant is focused on the development of open foundational technologies for plant synthetic biology and their application for engineering new traits in crop systems. The initiative promotes two-tier intellectual property models to accelerate innovation, global sharing and responsible innovation (https://www.openplant.org). The OpenBioMAPS project aims to provide open source tools to foster innovation for startups and SMEs in the UK.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 6 months in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the apply button above.

Please notice that if you have not received any news from us 1 month after the closing date you should consider that on this occasion your application has not been successful.

Please quote reference PD42117 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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