Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Crop Plant Photosynthesis

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant based at the School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences (SBBS), Queen Mary University of London. The Plant Cell and Molecular Biology group at SBBS, led by Dr Guy Hanke, is running a 3-year BBSRC funded project to better understand the function of photosynthesis in developing seeds of cereals, with a focus on barley. This involves genetic manipulation of barley, proteomics, electron and fluorescence microscopy and various techniques for measuring photosynthesis.

Applicants should hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in an area relevant to the project. Successful candidates will have research experience in molecular biology, biochemistry and plant genetics. Experience applying and developing methods in photosynthesis research and/or working with crop plants is desirable. A demonstrated ability to communicate well, work within a team, and deliver projects within an agreed timeframe is also essential.

Queen Mary University of London is one of the top research-led universities in the UK and was ranked 9th among the UK multi-faculty universities in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021). All postdoctoral researchers are part of the Queen Mary Doctoral College, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.

At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable. Throughout our history, we have fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence and we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it’s simply ‘the right thing to do’ but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers.


We offer competitive salaries, access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days’ leave per annum (pro-rata for fixed-term), a season ticket loan scheme, staff networks and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. In addition, we offer a range of work-life balance and family-friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and campus facilities including an on-site nursery at the Mile End campus.

The post is full-time (35 hours) and fixed term for a period of up to 36 months. The expected start date is February 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.