Group Leader in Discovery Plant Sciences

Group Leader in Discovery Plant Sciences

The John Innes Centre (JIC) seeks a visionary Group Leader to lead research in Discovery Plant Science. We welcome applications from scientists with expertise in any aspect of fundamental plant science, including but not limited to growth and development, environmental interactions, seasonal biology, cellular signalling, cell biology, genetics, epigenetics, and transcription.

This position will primarily focus on fundamental discovery plant science, with opportunities to access JIC's extensive resources and state-of-the-art plant growth facilities. Joining a vibrant plant and microbial research community offers opportunities for research synergy with others.

The successful candidate will be offered an initial six-year tenure-track position, with the possibility to apply for tenure during this period, subject to review. If the candidate meets our tenure criteria, we may consider direct appointment to a tenured position.

The role includes a full-time Research Assistant for the group, a well-equipped laboratory, and additional support such as a Laboratory Manager and media preparation team. You will benefit from cutting-edge platforms, including bioimaging, microscopy, proteomics, biochemistry, structural biology, crop transformation, and horticultural services. JIC's newly built 110-hectare field experimentation station integrates lab and field research, offering a seamless research environment. Explore the full range of platforms here .

Why Join JIC?

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial sciences. We foster a creative, curiosity-driven approach to fundamental bioscience questions and translate knowledge into societal benefits. Our strategic vision, Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet , outlines ambitious long-term goals for the global impact of our science.

We welcome international applicants. Our recruitment team will guide you through visa options and application processes. We cover visa costs for the successful candidate and dependants, as well as the immigration healthcare surcharge (IHS) during visa application.

We offer a competitive start-up package, including funding for a Research Assistant/postdoc, access to student schemes, core lab equipment, and advanced platform services such as horticulture, bioimaging, and proteomics. With no teaching duties, you can focus fully on your research.

Interested applicants should submit:

• CV
• A cover letter explaining your motivation for applying
• A 2-3 page description of current research activities
• Short- and long-term research goals (2-3 pages)

Highlight how your research aligns with JIC's four strategic research programmes here .

Application deadline: Close of play Monday, 25 August 2025.

Interviews are tentatively scheduled for 24 and 25 September 2025.

This role qualifies for a visa application. Please contact our HR team with any questions about your application or visa options.

We are committed to inclusivity and diversity. As a Disability Confident organization, we guarantee interviews to all disabled applicants meeting essential criteria. We hold a Gold Athena SWAN award for our inclusive culture and gender equality practices. We promote a family-friendly, stimulating, and diverse research environment. The Institute also participates in Stonewall's Diversity Champions programme.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852), grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.