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- Tasks: Assist in cutting-edge research on crop genetics and gene editing techniques.
- Company: Join the renowned John Innes Centre, a leader in plant and microbial sciences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and access to state-of-the-art technology.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable agriculture while working with innovative scientists.
- Qualifications: Degree in biological sciences and lab experience required; knowledge of molecular biology is a plus.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and training.
The predicted salary is between 28890 - 35670 £ per year.
Salary: £28,890 – £35,670 per annum depending on qualifications and experience
Contract: 24 months, part-time 22.5 hours per week
Location: John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK
Closing date: 19th February
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Assistant to join the Penfield Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science in the field of Crop Genetics.
About the John Innes Centre: The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial sciences. We nurture a creative, curiosity-led approach to answering fundamental questions in bioscience, and translate that knowledge into societal benefits. Our strategic vision sets out our ambitious long-term goals for the game changing impact of our science globally. Our employees enjoy access to state-of-the-art technology and a diverse range of specialist training opportunities, including support for leadership and management.
About the Penfield Group: The Penfield Group works to understand the effects of seasonal changes in temperature on plant reproductive development. We work with the model species Arabidopsis and Arable crops to understand how weather and climate variation affect reproductive development, crop yield and quality. We have a particular focus on exploiting gene editing for sustainable agriculture in non-cereal crops.
The role: An opportunity has arisen for a part time technical assistant to join our crop transformation and gene editing team, specifically to assist in the development of new processes for the efficient gene editing of sugar beet. The project is an exciting collaboration between the John Innes Centre (JIC), British Sugar, the British Beet Research Organisation and Tropic Biosciences. Based at the JIC you will work closely with Postdoctoral Researchers in the team to develop and scale new protocols for crop transformation. Working as part of a team led by Professor Steve Penfield you will play a key role in developing transformation and gene editing capabilities in sugar beet, using plant tissue culture, Agrobacterium-mediated plant transformation and basic molecular biology skills for the characterisation of transgenic plant tissues.
The ideal candidate: You will have a degree in biological sciences and previous experience working in a laboratory. The ideal candidate will have an understanding of aseptic techniques and transgenic research, alongside working knowledge of molecular biology necessary for plasmid handling and nucleic acid analysis. Previous experience in plant tissue culture and crop transformation will be an advantage. The successful candidate will be well organised, able to keep good records and understand the importance of information security in public/private partnerships.
Research Assistant in Norwich employer: John Innes Centre
Contact Detail:
John Innes Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of crop genetics, especially those at the John Innes Centre. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that Research Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of gene editing and plant tissue culture. We recommend practising common interview questions and even doing mock interviews with friends to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for bioscience! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let them know why you're excited about working in crop genetics and how you can contribute to their projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Assistant role. Highlight relevant experience in biological sciences, lab work, and any specific skills like aseptic techniques or molecular biology that match what we're looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about crop genetics and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Be sure to mention any specific projects or experiences that relate to the work we do at the Penfield Group.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since you'll be working closely with Postdoctoral Researchers, it's important to demonstrate your ability to collaborate. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before, especially in a lab setting.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to keep track of your progress!
How to prepare for a job interview at John Innes Centre
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of crop genetics and molecular biology. Familiarise yourself with key concepts related to gene editing and plant tissue culture, as these will likely come up during the interview. Being able to discuss recent advancements in the field can really impress your interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your previous lab work that highlight your skills in aseptic techniques and transgenic research. Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role's requirements, especially regarding crop transformation and molecular biology.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Penfield Group's current projects or the technologies they use. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with Postdoctoral Researchers, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked in teams before, particularly in a lab setting, and how you contribute to a positive team dynamic.
