Research Associate / Fellow

This is a full-time post (36.25 hours/week) and will be offered on a permanent with underlying funding contract, funded until 30th September 2029. Job share arrangements may be considered.

Applicants must be highly motivated and self-driven, with a PhD (or close to completion) in a relevant plant biology/genetics/plant breeding area or related biological science. It is essential that the successful candidate has demonstratable laboratory and glasshouse skills including aspects of plant genetics and molecular biology, with skills in data analysis/bioinformatics and laboratory skills in genetic marker analyses. It is desirabnle for the successful candidate to have considerable experience in some of the following areas: EMS mutagenesis, molecular cytogenetic techniques, data analyses and bioinformatics in wheat (specifically the use of genomic analysis tools), intercrossing wheat. A track record of publishing research is essential.

The purpose of this role is to support a new BBSRC funded project, leading to the development of a robust hybrid wheat system. Wheat will play a crucial role in feeding a global population of 10 billion by 2050. However, future wheat increases have to be achieved without equivalent growth in fertiliser and water use. While facing these challenges farmers are also confronted with yield limiting effects of climate change and new diseases. A hybrid wheat system has the potential to greatly assist global wheat production, as the hybrid seed produced carry stronger yield potential, adaptability and resilience to adverse environments than either parent. The Nottingham Wheat Research Centre have developed a new hybrid wheat system which utilises a line with a wheat/wild relative introgression. However, the current functionality of this system is hindered by the preferential transmission of the wild relative introgression to the next generation due to a gametocidal gene which vastly
increases its transmission frequency. The focus of this role is therefore, firstly to knockout the gametocidal gene using EMS mutagenesis and secondly to isolate the gene responsible for preferential transmission in wheat and investigate its mode of action. The successful candidate will work within the Wheat Research Centre and in close collaboration with an industrial partner.

£31,387 to £37,999 per annum (pro rata if applicable) depending on skills and experience (minimum £34866 with relevant PhD).