Postdoctoral Research Associate

Overview

Royal Holloway, University of London invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position within the Department of Biological Sciences. This fixed-term, full-time role involves working with Professor Alessandra Devoto in collaboration with SYNGENTA Jealott's Hill on the Plant Cell Libraries research project. The position is based on site at the university in Egham, Surrey.

Who can apply

Applicants must hold a PhD, or be close to completion, in Plant Biology, Synthetic Biology, Metabolic Engineering, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline. Candidates require a strong research background in plant molecular cell biology and plant in vitro culture, alongside practical experience in plant cell and tissue culture, genetic transformation, selection, screening, and molecular cloning techniques.

The university is unable to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship for this position. Consequently, applicants must already be eligible to work in the UK or possess leave to remain and the associated right to work for the duration of the employment.

What you get

The starting salary for this role begins at £42,150 per annum, which includes a London Allowance, with potential for appointment at a higher point for candidates demonstrating exceptional skills and experience. The position also includes a rewards and benefits package featuring a pension scheme with employer contributions, annual leave, training and development opportunities, various staff schemes, and free parking.

Requirements

The role requires skills in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation, as well as the ability to maintain accurate research records and present complex scientific information. Additional experience in preparing biological samples for high-throughput genomics, microscopy, and related bioinformatics analyses is advantageous. Post holders must also possess strong organizational and time management abilities, excellent communication skills, and the capacity to support the mentoring of students and colleagues.

How to apply

Applicants should submit their materials referencing identifier 1026-357 by the closing date. Informal discussions about the position can be directed to Professor Alessandra Devoto via email or phone, while queries concerning the application process should be sent to the Human Resources Department.

Key dates

The application deadline is 23:59 on 13 November 2026. Interviews are scheduled to take place on 18 November 2026, and the successful candidate is expected to start on 1 December 2026.