Postdoctoral Researcher / Research Assistant

  • Published:

Biology and Applications of Plant Immune Receptors
Kamoun Lab, The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL), Norwich, UK

Applications will be reviewed from 16/11/2026 onwards and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is appointed.

The Kamoun Lab at The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team. This position focuses on the biology of plant immune receptors and the application of this knowledge to crop disease resistance, with particular emphasis on nucleotide‑binding leucine‑rich repeat (NLR) proteins and their interactions with pathogen virulence effectors.

This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to internationally leading, curiosity‑driven research in plant immunity while engaging with translational efforts aimed at improving disease resistance in crops. The successful candidate will work in a world‑class research environment and interact closely with colleagues at TSL as well as national and international collaborators. Opportunities for engagement with industry partners provide a strong translational dimension and will appeal to candidates considering diverse career paths beyond traditional academia.

About the Kamoun Lab

The Kamoun Lab investigates plant immune receptors, pathogen effectors, and host–pathogen co‑evolution. Our research spans fundamental discovery—such as mechanisms of NLR activation, immune receptor networks, evolutionary and structural biology—and applied science, including disease‑resistance engineering and translational partnerships with industry in the UK and internationally.

We value open science, collaboration, and creative, hypothesis‑driven research. The lab has a strong track record of fostering multidisciplinary projects and supporting the career development of early‑career researchers.

Our research is supported by diverse funding sources, including UKRI / BBSRC, the European Research Council (ERC), philanthropic organisations such as Google.org, and partnerships with industry, reflecting both the fundamental and translational scope of our work. We operate in an open, transparent, and growth‑oriented environment: we recruit people with strong potential and support them in developing roles that best match their skills and ambitions as they progress to the next stage of their careers. Teamwork and collaboration are central to the lab culture.

The Kamoun Lab has a well-documented track record as a vibrant environment for creative multidisciplinary research and career development. We operate in an open, transparen’t, growth-oriented ecosystem—our approach is to hire people with strong potential and let them grow into roles that fit them best to enable them to transition to the next stage of their career. Team work and collaboration is a staple feature of the lab.

Further information:

Appointment Details

  • Contract: Initially offered for between 12 and 36 months, with a flexible start date.
  • Salary: UEA Research & Analogous Grade 7, up to £46,485 pa, depending on experience.
  • Visa: Some applicants may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker Visa route; eligibility will be assessed on an individual basis.

About The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL)

The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) is a world leader in plant and microbial science, dedicated to fundamental discoveries in plant–microbe interactions. In addition to its strong tradition of basic research, TSL is committed to delivering genomics‑based solutions to reduce losses from major crop diseases, particularly in developing countries.

TSL offers 30 days of annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and excellent opportunities for professional development. The institute is located on an attractive campus with a range of cultural and recreational facilities. TSL is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and provides a supportive working environment for all colleagues.

How to apply

Please apply online at https://www.tsl.ac.uk/opportunities/ and submit a single PDF containing:

  1. A cover letter (maximum 1 page) outlining your motivation and career goals.
  2. A CV (maximum 2 pages).
  3. Contact details for 2–3 referees.

Please quote the reference code: SK2026-02

Closing date: Applications will be reviewed from 16/11/2026 onwards and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is appointed.

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