The Sainsbury Laboratory | Predoctoral internship

Are you a driven student 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 molecular and cellular resolution.

About the Nobori Lab

Our lab 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. 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, bioinformatics-focused projects are available.
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 and 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. (2025) Immune cell states: critical building blocks of the plant immune system. Cell Host & Microbe, DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2025.06.016

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 12-month position.
Salary: UEA Technical Grade 3, Spine Point 11, at £24,215 per annum.

About The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL)

TSL is an independent research institute renowned for world-leading plant health research aimed at reducing crop losses through fundamental discoveries in molecular plant–microbe interactions. Located in Norwich in the county of Norfolk, an area known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage, TSL offers an excellent environment for research and training, with a welcoming community and strong scientific networks.

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

Find out more: Working environment & facilities - Support for staff - Our culture & values

Application Process

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

Human Resources at HR@tsl.ac.uk

Apply via this page and submit the following documents:

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 TN2026-01 in your application.

Closing Date

Applications close on January 26, 2026.