Post doctoral Research Associate

Post doctoral Research Associate: Fungus-Plant Interactions
Full time
Fixed Term (FTA) 30 months
Kew Gardens, Richmond

This is an exciting opportunity for a postdoctoral research associate to join the research groups of Drs Laura M. Suz and Prof. Martin Bidartondo for a period of 30 months in the Department of Comparative Plant and Fungal Biology at RBG Kew. The post holder will lead the fieldwork and laboratory work needed to generate and analyse ectomycorrhizal diversity and distribution data from long-term intensively monitored forest plots across Europe.

The project aims to fill the existing knowledge gap regarding community ecology and environmental science, particularly regarding recently identified large-scale environmental thresholds. This is an opportunity to carry our research on spatial and temporal changes in fungal species and communities below ground in European forests using a combination of field sampling, field experiments and/or modelling (functional and/or distributional).

Kew is the world’s leading botanic gardens, at the forefront of plant and fungal science, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major visitor attraction.

We want a world where plants and fungi are understood, valued and conserved – because our lives depend on them.

We use the power of our science and the rich diversity of our gardens and collections to provide knowledge, inspiration and understanding of why plants and fungi matter to everyone.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual interested in biological, environmental or computational science, with a track record of peer-reviewed scientific publications in these areas and experience working in the field and/or laboratory.

You'll need to have a Ph.D. in a relevant scientific area. Experience working with mycorrhizal fungi or other plant-fungal interactions is a plus.

Desirable: Accommodate flexible working arrangements when sampling and processing time-sensitive samples.

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 visit our website for more information and to apply.

We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.