Applications are invited for a Post-doctoral research associate position in the group of Dr. Hiromu Kameoka at China Academy of Science (CAS) Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences (CEMPS). Our group is also affiliated with Centre of Excellence for Plant and Microbial Science (CEPAMS), a CAS-John Innes Centre (JIC) joint research centre.

Job Description

KARRIKIN INSENSITIVE2 (KAI2)/DWARF14 LIKE (D14L) is required for plant responses to karrikins, smoke-derived compounds that induce seed germination. Genetic and biochemical evidence suggests that KAI2/D14L perceives an uncharacterized plant hormone, tentatively named KAI2 ligand (KL). The KL signalling pathway regulates seed germination, photomorphogenesis, root architecture, drought responses, AM symbiosis, and more.

The successful candidate will participate in the project related to the function of the KL pathway in environmental responses in rice. The candidate can also apply grants and work independently on his/her own projects.

Term: 2 years, with possibility of extension

Salary: Negotiable. We offer a competitive salary according to the qualification of applicants and CEMPS standards.

Location: CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai, China

Qualifications

We are looking for a candidate who has a Ph.D. in biology, chemistry, or any other related research discipline. Be in good physical health and generally aged under 35. Basic English speaking, reading, and writing skills, along with good communication and interpersonal skills, are essential.

To apply

Please send your CV to khiromu@cemps.ac.cn

Related publications

Kameoka, H., Shimazaki, S., Mashiguchi, K., Watanabe, B., Komatsu, A., Yoda, A., et al. (2023) DIENELACTONE HYDROLASE LIKE PROTEIN1 negatively regulates the KAI2-ligand pathway in Marchantia polymorpha. Curr Biol. 33: 3505–3513.

Tanaka, K., Wu, J., Harada, Y., Suzuki, T., Yan, Y., Seto, Y., et al. (2025) In vitro evaluation of protein–protein interactions in the rice KAI2 ligand signaling complex. bioRxiv. https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.09.29.679124.