Group Leader in Fundamental Biology of Legumes

The John Innes Centre (JIC) seeks a creative junior or established researcher to set up and lead an internationally excellent, independent research programme in fundamental plant biology relevant to legumes or other rotation crops. The postholder is encouraged to address biological questions with clear relevance to UK agriculture. Previous legume research experience is desirable but not essential. We will also consider candidates who wish to apply experience from other plant species to legumes to address agricultural challenges. We welcome applications from scientists with diverse expertise, including genetics, genomics, metabolism, biochemistry and cell biology. The successful candidate will be offered an initial six-year tenure track position, with the opportunity to apply for tenure during this period, subject to review. Candidates meeting tenure requirements may be considered for direct appointment to a tenured position. The role comes with a full-time Research Assistant for the group, a well-equipped laboratory, and additional support including a Laboratory Manager and media preparation team. You will also benefit from cutting-edge technology platforms, such as bioimaging and microscopy, proteomics, biochemistry, structural biology, crop transformation, and horticultural services. JIC's newly built 110-hectare field experimentation station integrates lab and field research on one site, providing a seamless research experience. Explore the full range of platforms here. Why Join JIC? The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial sciences. We nurture a creative, curiosity-led approach to answering fundamental questions in bioscience, and translate that knowledge into societal benefits. Our strategic vision, Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet, sets out our ambitious long-term goals for the game-changing impact of our science globally. We welcome international applicants and our dedicated recruitment team will guide you through the different visa options and application processes. We will cover visa costs for the successful candidate and their dependants as well as the immigration healthcare surcharge (IHS) when you apply for your visa. We provide a competitive start-up package, including full funding for a Research Assistant/postdoc, access to student schemes, core lab equipment and access to advanced platform services such as horticulture, bioimaging, and proteomics. With no teaching expectation, you'll have the freedom to focus fully on your research. Interested applicants are invited to submit the following documents:

• CV
• Cover letter explaining your motivation for applying for the Independent Fellowship position at JIC
• A description of current research activities (2-3 pages)
• Short- and long-term research goals (2-3 pages)
We encourage you to highlight how your research could contribute to JIC's four strategic research programmes (see here). Submit your application by 17:00 GMT 1 September 2026. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for 13 and 14 October 2026 and will be held in person at the John Innes Centre. This role meets the criteria for a visa application, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. 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.
• Six year tenure or a direct appointment, depending on experience
  
  Previous legume research experience is desirable but not essential. We will also consider candidates who wish to apply experience from other plant species to legumes to address agricultural challenges. We welcome applications from scientists with diverse expertise, including genetics, genomics, metabolism, biochemistry and cell biology.
  
  The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial sciences. We nurture a creative, curiosity-led approach to answering fundamental questions in bioscience, and translate that knowledge into societal benefits. Our strategic vision, Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet, sets out our ambitious long-term goals for the game-changing impact of our science globally.
  
  We provide a competitive start-up package, including full funding for a Research Assistant/postdoc, access to student schemes, core lab equipment and access to advanced platform services such as horticulture, bioimaging, and proteomics. With no teaching expectation, you'll have the freedom to focus fully on your research.