Predoctoral Internship – Nobori Lab

  • Published:

Plant immunity research at the single-cell and spatial resolution

Are you a driven undergraduate or recent graduate with an interest in pursuing a PhD or developing your research skills in plant and microbial science? Join the Nobori group at The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) in Norwich, UK, and be part of a cutting-edge research team investigating plant–microbe interactions at the molecular and cellular levels.

About the Nobori Lab

Our newly established lab (opened mid-2024) focuses on understanding the molecular and spatiotemporal characteristics of cells comprising the plant holobiont (the host plant and its associated microbes). We develop and integrate new genomics and imaging technologies to uncover how plant immune states emerge and how they contribute to plant health under diverse conditions. With three postdocs, two research associates, and two predoctoral researchers already on board, we offer a dynamic environment where you can help shape lab culture and receive close mentorship from both the Principal Investigator and experienced team members.

Lab website: www.tatsuyanobori.com

What you’ll do:

  • Collaborate with lab members to learn and integrate molecular biology, cell biology, and genomics techniques to study the plant immune system. For those interested in computational work, there are projects with a bioinformatics focus.
  • Explore the emerging concept of plant immune states and the cutting-edge approaches to investigate them.
  • Develop troubleshooting skills and manage your own mini-research project with increasing independence.
  • Build soft skills such as scientific writing, data presentation, and collaborative teamwork.

Who we’re looking for

  • Educational background: Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a BSc or MSc program in life sciences.
  • Relevant knowledge: Strong theoretical understanding in at least one of the following areas: molecular biology, cell biology, or bioinformatics. Experience in plant immunity research and practical lab/computational skills are advantageous but not required.
  • Motivation and curiosity: Eager to learn new experimental and computational methods, with a commitment to rigorous and high-quality research.
  • Organizational interpersonal skills: Excellent communication, teamwork, and time-management abilities.

Key publications:

Nobori, T., Monell, A., Lee, T.A., Sakata, Y., Shirahama, S., Zhou, J., Nery, J.R., Mine, A. and Ecker, J.R., (2025) A rare PRIMER cell state in plant immunity. Nature, DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-08383-z
Nobori, T., Oliva, M., Lister, R. and Ecker, J.R., (2023) Multiplexed single-cell 3D spatial gene expression analysis in plant tissue using PHYTOMap. Nature Plants, DOI: 10.1038/s41477-023-01439-4

Appointment Details

  • Contract: Initially offered as a 1-year position.
  • Salary: UEA Technical Grade 3, Spine Point 10, at £23,414 per annum.

We will begin reviewing applications on March 24, 2025. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled or April 25, 2025, whichever occurs first.

About The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL)

TSL is an independent research institute renowned for world-leading plant health research for a sustainable future – reducing crop losses through fundamental scientific discoveries in molecular plant-microbe interactions. Located in Norwich in the county of Norfolk, one of the most beautiful and popular counties in the UK, TSL is a wonderful place to work and study.

We offer:

  • 30 days of annual leave
  • A generous pension scheme
  • Professional development opportunities
  • A vibrant campus environment with cultural and recreational activities
  • A supportive, diverse, and inclusive workplace

Application Process

If you would like to discuss the vacancy before applying, please contact:

  • The HR Department on: HR@TSL.ac.uk
  • To apply, click the Apply button on this page and submit a single PDF containing:
  • CV (max. 2 pages)
  • Cover letter (max. 1 page) outlining your motivation and suitability for the role
  • Contact details for 2–3 referees

Please quote the reference code TN2025-01 in your application.

Closing Date

  • We will begin reviewing applications on March 24, 2025.

The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled or April 25, 2025, whichever occurs first.