Are you an experienced and ambitious researcher looking for your next challenge? Do you have a strong research background in rhizosphere biology? Do you want to further your career in a world-leading, research-intensive Russell Group University? 

With a vision and drive to contribute to a World-Leading research portfolio, as well as a passion for undertaking research-led teaching, you will make a significant impact on the performance, stature and profile of research and student education at The University of Leeds. You will lead new areas of rhizosphere biology that establish you as an international leader in your field and that contribute to collaboration across faculties and disciplines. You will play a key role with the academic leaders of the Centre for Plant Sciences and the Global Food and Environment Institute to collaborate across faculties and disciplines and establish the University of Leeds as a leading institution for soils research.

Our understanding of the rhizosphere has increased exponentially in recent years through application of physiological and molecular tools to the interactions of plants with the soil and soil microbiota. These interactions drive nutrient cycling, carbon storage and their significance in powering above-ground productivity, underpinning the evolution, development and regulation of global ecosystems. By working at the interface between fundamental and applied rhizosphere science, there is great potential to address global challenges including food, water and soil security, biodiversity and climate. The UAF in Rhizosphere Biology will play an important role in developing and expanding our expertise in this area, helping us to achieve our vision for the future of translational plant and soil research at Leeds.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual who will develop and lead new avenues of research in rhizosphere biology, particularly in plant root physiology, plant-soil interactions and/or microbial ecology. You will have a PhD and significant proven research experience with a record of international quality publications. You will have a clear and compelling research plan with the potential to deliver academic excellence at an international level, obtain competitive research funding, and commitment to undertake high quality and innovative teaching. You should also be able to develop collaborative research with members of the Centre for Plant Science and the wider Faculties of Biological Sciences, Environment and Engineering and Physical Sciences. You will have demonstrated collaborative experience that is relevant across major strategic research initiatives at the University, such as Future Crops and Smart Agri-Systems and where your fundamental understanding of rhizosphere processes is integral to a range of regional and global environmental challenges. 

Career Pathway: Tenure track equivalent post requiring successful completion of a 5 year development plan, leading to appointment to a grade 9 Associate Professor, with the potential for accelerated progression.

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact: 

Katie Field, Professor of Plant-Soil Interactions
Tel: +44 (0)113 343 2849, Email: K.Field@leeds.ac.uk

Or

Lisa Collins, Head of School of Biology
Tel: +44 (0)113 343 5940, Email:  L.Collins@leeds.ac.uk

Or

Steven Banwart, Director of the Global Food and Environment Institute
Tel: +44(0)113 343 1413, Email: S.A.Banwart@leeds.ac.uk 

Location:  Leeds - Main Campus
Faculty/Service:  Faculty of Biological Sciences
School/Institute:  School of Biology
Category:  Academic
Grade:  Grade 8
Salary:  £41,526 to £49,553 p.a.
Post Type:  Full Time
Contract Type:  Ongoing    
Closing Date:  Tuesday 03 March 2020
Interview Date:  Monday 30 March 2020    
Downloads:  Candidate Brief