University of Sheffield
A Research Assistant position, funded by the European Research Council, is available in the research group of Prof. Katie Field who leads the project in collaboration with Prof. Tim Daniell at the University of Sheffield and Dr Silvia Pressel at the Natural History Museum, London. You will be sited within the vibrant research environment of the School of Biosciences but will work closely with the collaborative network.
Recent discoveries have shown that Mucoromycotina “fine root endophyte” (MFRE) fungi form mutualistic symbioses with a wide range of land plants, spanning the entire plant phylogeny. However, despite their widespread occurrence, the fundamental biology of MFRE fungi remains poorly understood. This knowledge gap limits our ability to fully grasp the complexity, ecological function, and evolutionary significance of plant-fungal interactions in contemporary terrestrial ecosystems. This project aims to address these critical gaps by investigating the functional roles and distribution patterns of plant-MFRE symbioses using an integrated, multi-scale approach. Combining controlled laboratory experiments, field studies, and advanced microscopy, the project will generate comprehensive datasets to unravel the ecological and functional diversity of MFRE associations. You will be responsible for developing and applying analytical frameworks to interpret these large datasets, enabling new insights into the distribution and function of MFRE, particularly how they may contribute to plant health, diversity, and ecosystem dynamics across a range of environments.
Applicants must have a BSc or MSc in biology, ecology, microbiology, plant science, soil science, or a related discipline (or have equivalent experience), along with demonstrable experience of research using molecular techniques, isotope tracers and statistical or bioinformatic analysis of large datasets related to plant-microbe interactions, particularly in multi-trophic scenarios. You should have strong analytical skills and must have the ability to work well independently and as part of team, together with excellent time management and communication skills.
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