A four-year postdoctoral position is available in the Mutualisms Laboratory at the John Innes Centre in Norwich, UK. Applications are due on December 15th: https://www.jic.ac.uk/vacancies/postdoctoral-researcher-hassan-group/ The Mutualisms Research Group studies the evolution and mechanisms of mutualistic interactions between insects and microbes. Focusing on leaf beetles and their bacterial symbionts, the group explores how these partnerships shape host nutrition, development, and adaptation. Using genomic, chemical, and developmental approaches, they investigate how symbionts contribute to host physiology and ecological success. By integrating evolutionary biology and molecular tools, the group aims to uncover the processes that maintain beneficial host-microbe associations and illuminate the broader principles governing symbiosis in nature. A postdoc skilled in genetic manipulations is essential to advance the group's research on insect-microbe mutualisms. They will develop and apply molecular tools for functional studies in symbiotic systems, enabling gene editing, symbiont manipulation, and mechanistic insight into host-symbiont interactions that drive evolutionary innovation and ecological adaptation. The initial contract length is 17 months, after which the employment duration is extended through four years. The role: The candidate will complement bioassays in the laboratory and field, and develop and apply genetic manipulation tools to dissect the molecular and functional mechanisms underlying insect-microbe mutualisms. This diverse role will provide you with a broad range of stimulating activities, including: Designing and implementing innovative genetic tools to experimentally probe host-symbiont interactions. Collaborating across disciplines, including, genomics, microbiology, and evolutionary biology in order to integrate diverse datasets and approaches. Presenting discoveries at international conferences and mentoring students within a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment. The ideal candidate: You will have a PhD or equivalent in Evolutionary Biology, Genomics or related discipline. The successful candidate will have good knowledge of molecular biology techniques and genomics as well as scripting (preferably in R or Python). The post holder will have demonstrated ability to perform research and develop novel ideas in the area of symbiosis research and the development of genetic tools for microorganisms. They will also have experience of supervising, training and mentoring visitors and students, excellent communication skills with the ability to present complex information with clarity and a demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills. Additional information: For inquiries, please contact Dr. Hassan Salem (hassan.salem@jic.ac.uk). For further information and details of how to apply can be found here: https://www.jic.ac.uk/vacancies/postdoctoral-researcher-hassan-group/ or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004977. Applications are due on December 15th. We anticipate interviews for this role will take place in late January. Therefore, please be advised that shortlisted candidates may not be contacted until early January. 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. Hassan Salem (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)