A postdoctoral position is available to work on a joint project between The University of St Andrews and The James Hutton Institute studying the mechanisms by which an important plant pathogen coordinates its life cycle with the presence of a host.  Potato cyst nematodes remain unhatched in the egg until the presence of chemical cues from host plants is detected. We have identified an eggshell localised annexin that plays a role in this process.  

The successful applicant will investigate the structure of this annexin, the ways in which it responds to the presence of host derived chemicals and how this may trigger the hatching process.  The post requires a PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry or plant pathology, ideally a combination of these.

The successful applicant will have experience in one or more of cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology and structural biology and an interest in plant pathology.  

This post is for 2.5 years and will start on 1 November 2021 or as soon as possible thereafter. Further information can be obtained from Prof John Jones (jj33@st-andrews.ac.uk) or Prof Terry Smith (tks1@st-andrews.ac.uk). 

Applications are particularly welcome from women, people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented in research posts at the University.   

The University is committed to equality for all, demonstrated through accreditation (Athena SWAN; Carer Positive; Stonewall, LGBT and Race Charters), as listed on: http://www.st- andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/diversityawards/.

Please quote ref: AR2444SB

Closing Date: 31 August 2021

Interview Date: 8-10 September 2021

Further Particulars: AR2444SB FPs.doc

School of Biology
Salary: £33.797 - £35,845 per annum
Start: 1 November 2021 or as soon as possible thereafter
Fixed term for 30 months