New job vacancies: Postdoc and lab assistant

Research Associate:

microbiology and mycoforestry  

We seek a postdoctoral microbiologist with experience of in-field collection of isolates alongside maintaining, screening and developing fungi cultures. This two-year role will focus on the collection and development of ectomycorrhizal (EMF) isolates, optimising in vitro growth conditions and the production of trees inoculated with different EMF species leading to field trials. Applicants should have a PhD in a relevant area of biological sciences and be experienced in lab-based culturing techniques. Experience with mycorrhiza identification and DNA metabarcoding would be highly beneficial.

This Mycorrhizal Systems Ltd (MSL) based role is part of an exciting interdisciplinary collaboration between MSL and the University of Stirling (UoS). As a global leader in EMF activities, the MSL team is led by Prof. Paul Thomas, with the UoS team being led by Prof. Alistair Jump and Dr Dan Chapman.  The project team focusses on combining novel EMF cultivation with woodland creation.  

Informal enquiries in advance of application can be made to Lyndsay McFarlane or Paul Thomas at l.mcfarlane@plantationsystems.com 

This contract is fully funded for 2 years from 01/09/2023.

 Research Assistant:

microbiology and mycoforestry

We seek a microbiologist with experience of maintaining and developing fungi cultures. This two-year role will focus on the collection and development of ectomycorrhizal (EMF) isolates, optimizing in vitro growth conditions and the production of trees inoculated with different EMF species leading to field trials. Applicants should be educated to at least degree level in a relevant area of biological sciences, be experienced in lab-based culturing techniques and plant husbandry.  Mycorrhiza and DNA metabarcoding experience would be beneficial, but is not essential.

This Mycorrhizal Systems Ltd (MSL) based role is part of an exciting interdisciplinary collaboration between MSL and the University of Stirling (UoS). As a global leader in EMF activities, the MSL team is led by Prof. Paul Thomas, with the UoS team being led by Prof. Alistair Jump and Dr Dan Chapman.  The project team focusses on combining novel EMF cultivation with woodland creation. 

Informal enquiries in advance of application can be made to Lyndsay McFarlane or Paul Thomas at l.mcfarlane@plantationsystems.com

This contract is fully funded for 2 years from 01/09/2023.

 Location

You’ll be working at a new research facility based in a scenic location with beautiful views on the Isle of Bute. As the most accessible of the Scottish islands, Bute sits just 33 miles from Glasgow, with a frequent 35 min ferry service. A combined train/ferry connection from Glasgow central takes just 1.5hours. With a population of ~6,000, stunning beaches and a mild climate, Bute is a popular holiday destination and a beautiful place to live.  The newly built research facility houses a culturing and DNA sequencing lab, experimental growth facilities and an adjacent field-trial site and truffle orchard. The lab team consists of four, with an adjacent office, housing extra staff providing administrative support. You’ll also benefit from the established MSL-UoS team structure and access to UoS facilities.

 Organization

MSL was founded in 2004 and operates internationally in the cultivation of EMF and primarily truffle species. Having successfully produced the first cultivated truffles in England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Macedonia and the Netherlands, MSL is heavily engaged in research and has further large glasshouse facilities in England and an established base in the US. 

You’ll be managed by Prof. Paul Thomas, with additional technical guidance by Prof. Adrian Slater. Supporting your role will be additional research assistants and administrative support. Your role will allow a degree of creative and experimental flexibility within the boundaries of this high-impact and exciting project.

Application process and deadline

Please apply by emailing a CV and covering letter, before the 1st of August 2023 to Lyndsay McFarlane at l.mcfarlane@plantationsystems.com