Research Assistant

Main Purpose of the Job

The postholder will assist with the day to day growth and care of many wheat lines for phenotyping and sample generation. The postholder will collect phenotypic data of cold treated lines in collaboration with the postdoc on the project. Research Assistants enhance the output of a research group by providing technical and administrative support to the Group Leader and group members.

Key Relationships

Internal: The postholder will work closely with the [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] cold tolerance project team Amy Newell and Emilie Knight and will be line managed by Simon Griffiths. They will maintain good relationships with all group members and interact with as necessary, other researchers, research support staff and students across the Institute. External: The postholder will work closely with academic collaborators in the USA and Germany and UK industrial collaborators.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• Plan, perform and trouble-shoot plant growth experiments as and when necessary under the supervision of the Project Leader (75%)
• Contribute to the smooth running of the group, including through the effective use of resources, supervision of visitors to the laboratory and assisting with training others, encouraging scientific excellence (5%)
• Undertake routine administrative tasks, such as maintenance of laboratory supplies and stocks (5%)
• Enhance the output of a research group by executing and refining existing experimental protocols and/or administrative procedures (5%)
• Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, scientific Integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements (5%)
• Continually strive for excellence, seeking out and acting on feedback and relevant learning and development opportunities (5%)
• As agreed with line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the role

Person Profile

Education & Qualifications

• BSc or equivalent in Biology (Desirable)

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

• Experience in the care or growth of plants in a research setting (Essential)
• Molecular biology experience (Desirable)

Relevant Experience

• Experience in scientific data collection/ analysis (Essential)
• Demonstrated ability to perform research (Desirable)
• Experience working with crop plants (Desirable)
• Experience of oral research presentations (Desirable)

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

• Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a team (Essential)
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills (Essential)
• Excellent time management and organisational skills (Essential)
• Ability to prioritise to meet the demands of the group (Essential)
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to present complex information with clarity (Essential)
• Ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders (Essential)
• Ability to follow instructions/Standard Operating Procedures (Essential)
• Promotes and strives for continuous improvement (Essential)

Additional Requirements

• Attention to detail (Essential)
• Promotes equality and values diversity (Essential)
• Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work (Essential)
• Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute (Essential)
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate (Essential)
• Willingness to work outside standard working hours when required (Essential)
• Ability to undertake occasional travel (national and international) related to collaborations and/or seminars (Essential)

About [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]

The [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial genetics, carrying out fundamental and strategic research, to train scientists and making our findings available to society. Our research makes use of a wide range of disciplines in the biological and chemical sciences including; cell biology, biochemistry, chemistry, genetics and molecular biology.

We pride ourselves on being a welcoming and inclusive working environment for all. We have a diverse and multicultural scientific community and thrive on our European and international links, appointing staff from across the world. Any candidate who would like further information on current or anticipated immigration requirements can contact the HR Team on +44 (0)1603 450888 or [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal].

Department

Crop Genetics - The Department of Crop Genetics undertakes fundamental research on the biology of cereals, brassicas and legumes to understand the genetic and molecular basis of phenotypic variation. A major goal is to develop the technologies and knowledge base to provide a predictive framework that will underpin conventional and novel plant breeding strategies. This will enable high-yielding, stress and disease resistant varieties, with a particular end-use quality, suitable for an efficient but benign agriculture.

Additional Information

Interviews will be held on 22 June 2026. This role is not suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. However, some individuals may be eligible for an alternative visa depending on their personal circumstances. We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity.