Research Associate

Department The Rylott Lab at the University of York is actively seeking a postdoc to engineer plants for bioremediation and metal recovery (Rylott & Bruce, 2022, Science 377: 1380-1381). You will be part of the Engineering Biology Mission Hub for Environmental Processing and Recovery of Metals (ELEMENTAL). The Hub’s aims are to address the growing need for critical minerals and metals in clean energy technologies and promote a circular economy. The project brings together a range of specialists from UK institutions to establish an open knowledge hub focused on bio-extraction and bio-recovery of metals. The Hub aims to enhance ongoing projects related to mineral extraction, urban mining, industrial waste, and nuclear waste by leveraging engineering biology tools and approaches. The project emphasises the importance of sustainable and efficient solutions to tackle environmental challenges associated with metal waste and scarcity. Role You will lead on developing plant-based systems with improved metal solubilisation and uptake, subsequent sequestration. You will focus on technology critical metals (nickel, platinum group metals, rare earth elements) and radionuclides, testing gene systems in Arabidopsis, and transferring the technology into the biomass crop species willow (Salix sps.). Collaboration with plant and microbial engineers and bioinformaticians within the Hub will provide opportunities to acquire new skills. You will also engage with industrial stakeholders and participate in international-scale conferences. Additionally, you will play a role in identifying and developing potential research areas, contributing to the development of independent or collaborative research projects, and writing research papers for publication. Skills, Experience & Qualification needed Expertise in plant gene editing and synthetic biology, coupled with excellent biochemistry skills, and preferably, expertise in plant physiology. PhD in molecular biology, synthetic biology or relevant subject, or equivalent experience. A genuine interest in the project's subject matter. Attention to detail, a commitment to conducting high-quality research, problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative ethos. The ability to meet deadlines efficiently, take initiative in planning research programs, and excellent communication skills. A strong desire to develop project and team leadership skills. This role is available on a fixed term basis for 5 years. Interview date: To be confirmed For informal enquiries: please contact Dr Liz Rylott by email at liz.rylott@york.ac.uk. The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves. We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork