Job description
Research Associate (Nutrient Genetics)
The Research Associate will join a 5-year UKRI-funded, ERC Starting project that will characterize the genomic, metagenomic and chemical diversity of rice from pre-industrial agricultural ecosystems. This project will utilize state-of-art methodology for archaeogenomics, pioneer analyses of nutrients in historical samples, and employ new methods for accurate microbiome characterization. The Research Associate will lead the genome and nutrient analyses in this project, working both on historical (herbarium) and contemporary samples of rice, with the focus on micronutrient uptake and interactions with microbes. Additionally, the researcher will participate in field experiments and work with internal and external collaborators.
- Employee Benefits - RBG Kew.pdf
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More details
We are seeking candidates holding a PhD/D.Phil degree or equivalent in relevant research field (e.g. plant genetics, genomics, agricultural sciences) and with bioinformatics/computational biology experience, particularly, in comparative crop genomics, as well as experience with characterizing nutritional qualities of grains. Our ideal candidate will be a team player who can work on their own initiative and is enthusiastic about teamwork and tutoring others. Experience working in Asia would be desirable but is not essential.
This role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
The salary will be £34,000 – £38,000 per annum pro-rata, depending on skills and experience.
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 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”.
We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interviewing all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
No agencies please.