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The successful candidate will have flexibility to generate a comprehensive research project that supports their own interests, while being based on already available samples and data within the Mycorrhizal Ecology research team, and which addresses topics surrounding the holobiont and the group’s general research areas. The successful candidate will lead activities in lab- and/or field-work, related to quantifying, identifying and analysing ecological aspects of mycorrhizal fungi. While field work could include soil and root sampling for mycorrhizal fungi, the post holder will more substantially be involved in lab work, which might include microscopy (e.g., ectomycorrhizal traits), molecular (e.g., DNA extraction, amplification, sequencing, bioinformatics) and/or root staining and AI for colonisation. The postholder will also curate and analyse data, generated by themselves as well as the lab more generally, and summarise results in presentations and manuscripts for publication.

Interests in plant and fungal ecology, the holobiont, and in ecological topics from the scale of global change to the root-level of plant-fungi interactions will be an asset for this position. Applicants should have a completed PhD, or equivalent experience including a BSc and/or MSc, in a mycological, ecological and/or environmental science field. We encourage applicants with experience in fungal (especially in mycorrhizal fungi) and/or plant ecology to apply. Experience in lab techniques that are applicable to mycorrhizal fungi (e.g., molecular identification, root-staining and biomass estimates), in bioinformatics and/or statistical analyses is also helpful. The position will be based at [Employer hidden], within a highly active research environment.

Please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc.

The salary for this position is £39,243 - £42,154 per annum, depending on skills and experience [Band D]

Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking “Apply for this job”.