An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Uauy Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science in the field of crop genetics.

Project background

Wheat yield is determined largely by the number of spikelets per spike and the number of fertile, grain-bearing florets within each spikelet (i.e. the inflorescence). Critically, this fertility is not uniform along the spike: central spikelets produce the most and largest grains, whereas spikelets at the base and apex of the spike produce fewer and smaller ones. The small, developmentally delayed and infertile spikelets at the base, referred to as rudimentary basal spikelets (RBS), represent an underexplored factor limiting yield potential. Understanding their developmental origin and genetic control offers a novel route to improve spikelet fertility and grain number.

We recently discovered that a transcription factor involved in spikelet development, here referred to as TF1, plays a causal and unexpected role in RBS formation. This discovery builds on our earlier work with the VRT2 transcription factor, which also affects spikelet development and RBS. Together, these results suggest that TF1 acts within a broader developmental network governing spikelet and RBS formation, thereby shaping overall inflorescence architecture.

The project

This project will establish how TF1 works, when it acts, and why different haplotypes have such contrasting effects on fertility and yield. Together, these aims will produce the first comprehensive mechanistic framework explaining how TF1 shapes early wheat inflorescence development. By pinpointing why basal spikelets often abort, the project will provide a scientific foundation for breeding strategies that increase the number of fertile spikelets and yield potential.

The role

The successful candidate will characterise the role of TF1 on spikelet development by identifying the developmental stages and cellular processes it controls. They will further define the spatio-temporal expression and regulatory landscape of TF1 using both RNA-seq and MERFISH. In addition, the successful candidate will identify interaction partners and downstream targets of TF1 to explore the regulatory networks controlled by TF1.

The ideal candidate

You will have a PhD in Molecular Biology or Plant Biology with in-depth knowledge of protein isolation, identification, and quantification, as well as both protein-protein interaction and protein-DNA interaction assays.

You will have a proven ability to perform research and develop novel ideas in molecular plant biology. Experience in spatial transcriptomics techniques and a proven record in scientific writing are highly desirable.

Additional information

A starting salary of £40,100 is guaranteed for candidates who can evidence their PhD certificate at appointment. Candidates awaiting confirmation of their PhD award will be appointed at £39,000 until evidence is provided.

Interviews will be held on 11^th and 12^th January.

For further information and details of how to apply can be found here or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1006247.

This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Where the successful applicant requires a visa, we will fund the costs for their visa and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Please contact the Human Resources Team if you have any questions regarding your application or visa options.

We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity.  As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of 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.

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