At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the AutoTraits project to develop innovative web applications for agri-tech research.
- Company: University of Lincoln, a leader in agri-food technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and opportunities for career development.
- Other info: Inclusive environment encouraging diverse applicants and excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on plant breeding with cutting-edge software solutions.
- Qualifications: Honours degree or Master's in Computer Science or related field; strong programming skills required.
Location: Lincoln
Salary: From £33,002 per annum
Please note, this post is fixed-term until 28 February 2027 and full-time at 1 FTE.
Closing Date: Friday 14 August 2026
Interview Date: Thursday 27 August 2026
Reference: CH345
We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant to join the AutoTraits project—an advanced, software-driven platform transforming how strawberry traits are measured and used in breeding programmes. AutoTraits addresses one of the major bottlenecks in crop development: the time and effort required for manual phenotyping. Using images, videos and point clouds, the platform delivers automated, quantitative measurement of plant traits, enabling faster, more consistent assessment at scale and providing breeders with deeper insight into plant performance and complex trait interactions.
You will contribute to the continued development of the AutoTraits platform by designing, implementing, and maintaining modern web applications that support the acquisition, management, and analysis of phenotyping data. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of research software engineering, cloud technologies, and agri-tech innovation, developing tools that have direct impact on academic research and commercial plant breeding.
Candidates should possess (or be close to completion of) an honours degree or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related discipline. Applicants should demonstrate:
- Good programming skills in Python and experience developing modern web applications using React.js.
- Experience working with SQL databases and an understanding of modern web application architecture.
- Strong knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and software development best practices.
- Experience using Git and writing clean, maintainable, and well-documented code.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
Opportunities to get involved in writing academic papers will also be available to outstanding candidates. This is a full-time post, with excellent opportunities for ongoing career development and progression. Informal enquiries about the post can be made to Prof. Grzegorz Cielniak (email: gcielniak@lincoln.ac.uk).
Further details: Job Description and Person Specification.
You can find out more about working at Lincoln, and everything that we have to offer, at: https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/jobopportunities/
We strive for a diverse workforce with the very best employees and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. The University encourages applications from underrepresented groups inclusive of Black, Asian and other minoritised/marginalised ethnic groups, all gender identities and expressions from the LGBTQIA+ community, candidates with a disability, and those that practise different faiths and beliefs, to enhance our One Community where we strive to be kind, patient, and supportive of each other.
Please note: If you think you may require a visa to work in the UK, please refer to UK Visas and Immigration or UK Visas – Information for Prospective Staff before embarking upon an application, to ensure that you understand the requirements for sponsorship. You may be eligible to work in the UK via other alternative visa routes such as the Global Talent Visa or by having Settlement / ILR; please refer to the UK Visas pages above for further details.
Research Assistant (INTERNAL ONLY) in Lincoln employer: Lincoln Institute
The Lincoln Institute is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, staff enjoy generous annual leave, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional growth within the vibrant university community in Lincoln. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive culture that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant (INTERNAL ONLY) in Lincoln
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant (INTERNAL ONLY) in Lincoln
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Lincoln Institute does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lincoln Institute
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Lincoln Institute will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Lincoln Institute.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Lincoln Institute.
