We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to lead a project that aims to uncover the patterning processes underlying a unique secondary cell wall geometry with biomechanical function in exploding seed pods.

Secondary cell walls are the most abundant biomass produced by plants and a major global sink for atmospheric carbon. Secondary cell walls are organized into diverse, highly ordered patterns according to cell function. Exploding seed pods contain cells with distinctive, polarly localized secondary cell walls that underpin the mechanics of explosive seed dispersal in the Arabidopsis relative, Cardamine hirsuta. How the patterning of this complex cell wall geometry is acheived is currently unknown. This project aims to investigate whether interactions between proteins at the plasma membrane and cortical microtubules are involved in generating the distinct secondary cell wall pattern found in C. hirsuta fruit.  

The postdoc will use confocal microscopy, image analysis, genetics and molecular biology approaches to understand the role of cortical microtubules and microtubule-associated proteins in secondary cell wall patterning in explosive fruit.

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We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher, with a strong background in developmental and/or cell biology. Knowledge and demonstrated experience in confocal microscopy, image analysis, genetics and molecular biology is necessary. Experience in proteomics is a plus. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in biology or a related field and must have published previously in peer-reviewed journals. The candidate should be able to work independently and also have excellent team working skills. An excellent written and oral command of English is essential.