Molecular Microbiologist/Plant Pathologist

We are seeking a motivated post-doctoral researcher in molecular microbiology or plant pathology to join our dynamic research team for a 3-year position starting 1st October 2025 investigating the fascinating molecular mechanisms behind blackleg disease in potato caused by Pectobacterium atrosepticum (Pba). Youll lead innovative research unravelling how bacterial pathogens manipulate plant hormones to cause disease.

This role offers a unique opportunity to explore the intricate world of plant-pathogen interactions focusing on how Pba produces plant hormone mimics and their biological role in potato infections. Working under the supervision of Dr Ashleigh Holmes the postholder will assess the optimum conditions for mimic expression from Pba using techniques such as GFP reporters defined gene mutants and ChIP-exo. To assess the responses of potato to the bacterial hormone mimic the postholder will undertake plant infection assays and RNA-sequencing.

As part of the wider project teamyou will collaborate with leading scientists at the University of St Andrews and University of Strathclyde contributing to groundbreaking discoveries about potato protein interactions with bacterial hormone mimics. This position promises significant opportunities for professional development conference presentation publications and networking within the plant pathology community.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead molecular cloning projects and RNA extraction protocols that drive our research forward
• Cultivate and maintain bacterial cultures while conducting GFP reporter assays
• Manage plant propagation programs and execute infection assays that form the backbone of our research
• Undertake statistical analysis of experimental data contributing to high-impact publications and project reports
• Foster collaborative relationships with academic partners facilitating resource sharing and knowledge exchange that amplifies research impact

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• PhD or substantial professional experience in Microbiology Molecular Biology Plant Pathology or related discipline
• Demonstrated expertise in core molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extraction cloning PCR qPCR) with a track record of successful applications
• Proven proficiency in microbiological methods including advanced bacterial culturing techniques
• Strong independent research capabilities combined with excellent collaborative skills in multidisciplinary environments
• Exceptional communication abilities meticulous record-keeping practices and sophisticated data analysis skills

Desirable Skills:

• Deep understanding of bacterial gene expression regulation mechanisms
• Hands-on experience with ChIP-exo or RNA-sequencing data analysis and interpretation
• Advanced microscopy expertise particularly in confocal fluorescence microscopy applications
• Proven track record in designing and evaluating plant-pathogen interaction assays
• Specialised experience in plant tissue culture methodologies with strength in potato systems
• Technical proficiency with virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) approaches

This position offers an exceptional opportunity to advance your career while contributing to research that could revolutionise our understanding of plant disease mechanisms and potentially lead to more resilient crop varieties.

Additional notes

• Please note the minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker Visa is currently 41700.00. If the advertised salary for this posts falls below this threshold we regret to advise that we may not be able to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship to a non-UK citizen for this role. Applicantswho do not meet the conditions to be sponsored as per the UK governments page ( will need to demonstrate an alternative right to work.

What we offer

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - A confidential service available to support employees and their families with work or personal problems. Providing access to professional counsellors psychologists and work-life consultants available to help and support individuals in tackling all types of problems.
• Annual Leave Generous entitlement up to 40.5 days a year with carry over possible and guaranteed time-off for Christmas.
• Pension - Employer Contribution of 15% in a Personal Pension Plan and employee contribution flexibility.
• Self-managed hours and Flexible Working option to manage and spread your working time in line with organisational needs to create a healthy work life balance.

We will not consider the use of 3rd party recruitment agencies for the sourcing of candidates for this position.

The James Hutton Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

The James Hutton Institute is a: Stonewall Diversity Champion; Athena SWAN Silver Status Holder; Disability Confident Committed Employer and a Living Wage Employer.

The James Hutton Institute is Happy to Talk Flexible Working.