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- Tasks: Join our team to plan and conduct exciting cereal pathology trials and assess plant health.
- Company: Niab is a leading crop science organization revolutionizing agriculture through research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible working, generous sick pay, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team tackling real-world agricultural challenges in state-of-the-art facilities.
- Qualifications: A BSc in Plant Pathology or equivalent experience is required; knowledge of cereal diseases is a plus.
- Other info: Located near Cambridge with easy access to transport and free on-site parking.
The predicted salary is between 22700 - 30700 £ per year.
Exciting Opportunity: Advance Plant Science and Protect British Crops!
Are you passionate about plant health and cutting-edge research? Join Niab’s world-class Plant Pathology Team and play a key role in protecting Britain's crops from emerging diseases. This is your chance to work on pioneering research, develop new disease-resistant crops, and make a real impact in the agricultural sector.
About the Role
Based at Niab Park Farm in Histon, Cambridge, you’ll be at the forefront of plant pathology research, tackling major threats to crop health. You’ll apply advanced molecular techniques and field trials to assess and mitigate plant diseases, working across laboratory, growth rooms, field trials, and data analysis. This dynamic role offers variety, innovation, and impact, ensuring no two days are the same.
What you will be involved with:
- Lead Cutting-Edge Research – Contribute to breakthrough projects in plant pathology and disease resistance.
- Molecular & Genetic Analysis – Extract and prepare high-quality genomic DNA, conduct PCR/qPCR, genotyping, and help with next-generation sequencing.
- Pathology Trials & Data Analysis – Design and execute trials in laboratory, growth room, and field environments, assessing disease resistance in crops.
- Equipment & Lab Management – Maintain and oversee laboratory equipment, ensuring seamless research operations.
Salary: from £28,000 per annum, depending on experience with paid overtime being available.
Contract: Fixed term for 3 years
Working hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday
About Niab
Niab is a pioneering crop science organisation at the forefront of innovation in plant genetics, pathology, agronomy, farming systems, and data science. With headquarters in Cambridge and regional offices across the UK, we are dedicated to transforming crop production in the arable, forage, and horticulture sectors.
Join our team of nearly 400 experts and play a vital role in groundbreaking scientific research that shapes the future of plant science. As an independent research organisation eligible for UKRI funding, we collaborate closely with industry, government, and academia, offering unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and impactful research.
Niab actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. As a Disability Confident Employer, we have a positive approach to employing people living with a disability.
Why join us?
- Work with Experts – Join a dynamic and passionate team of over 20 plant pathologists, PhD students, and visiting researchers.
- World-Class Facilities – Access newly built state-of-the-art laboratories, walk-in growth rooms, and modern glasshouses.
- Field Research – Gain hands-on experience at multiple trial sites in East Anglia.
- Exciting & Varied Role – Work across laboratory, field, and office settings, adapting to seasonal and project needs.
- Make a Real Impact – Contribute to groundbreaking research, shaping the future of crop protection and plant pathology.
What you will need to succeed
We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented researcher with:
- A degree in plant pathology, plant science, genetics, or molecular biology (MSc or PhD preferred but not essential).
- Experience in DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, and genotyping, with additional expertise in plant pathogens and microbiology.
- Hands-on experience working with cereal and legume crops in lab, glasshouse, or field settings.
- Strong IT and data analysis skills, alongside problem-solving abilities and a collaborative mindset.
- A full UK driving licence (as some trial sites are inaccessible by public transport).
Location
You will be based at Niab Park Farm in Histon, Cambridge – a cutting-edge research facility just four miles from the city centre. The site offers:
- Advanced research spaces – molecular biology labs, glasshouses, growth rooms, and GM containment units.
- Excellent connectivity – Easy access via A14, M11, A10, A11, plus free on-site parking and cycling routes.
- Public transport links – Regular buses connecting to Cambridge city centre and railway station.
- Travel opportunities – Occasional trips to field trial sites in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk.
Cambridge Park Farm site:
Benefits
- 25 days holiday + public holidays + 3 extra days off at Christmas.
- Flexible working options.
- Generous sick pay.
- Attractive pension scheme.
- Income protection & life assurance.
- Employee discount scheme & cycle to work.
- Free on-site parking.
Excited to shape the future of crop science? Apply today and be part of a team making a real-world impact!
Informal Enquiries
Tom Wood (Deputy Head of Plant Pathology) –
Kostya Kanyuka (Head of Plant Pathology) –
To apply
Click the ‘Apply’ button or visit our website: for further details and to apply directly. Any questions? Email or call Human Resources on 01223 342282. Apply soon as we may shortlist prior to the closing date.
Closing date: 12 March 2025.
Interview date: within two weeks after the closing date.
Please note that following changes to Immigration Law in April 2024, this role does not qualify for a Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Candidates with independently held immigration permission would be considered.
Plant Pathologist employer: National Institute of Agricultural Botany
Contact Detail:
National Institute of Agricultural Botany Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Plant Pathologist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the latest research in plant pathology, especially related to cereal crops. This will not only help you during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the field and the work we do at Niab.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the plant sciences sector. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet experts and learn about current challenges and innovations in crop production.
✨Tip Number 3
Gain hands-on experience with molecular diagnostics and pathogen inoculation techniques. This practical knowledge will be invaluable and demonstrate your commitment to personal development in this area.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your organizational skills and how you prioritize tasks. Given the dynamic nature of our work, showcasing your ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively will set you apart.
We think you need these skills to ace Plant Pathologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Plant Pathologist position at Niab. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize any experience you have with managing disease trials, preparing inoculum, and assessing diseases in cereal crops. Mention specific projects or roles that demonstrate your expertise in plant pathology.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your skills in molecular diagnostics and any relevant software applications, such as Microsoft Office. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles or projects.
Personalize Your Application: Address your cover letter to the hiring team at Niab and express your enthusiasm for their mission to protect cereal crops. Mention why you are specifically interested in working with them and how you can contribute to their goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Institute of Agricultural Botany
✨Know Your Pathogens
Make sure to brush up on your knowledge of fungal diseases, especially those affecting cereal crops. Be prepared to discuss specific pathogens and their impact on crop health during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Research Skills
Be ready to share examples of your experience in managing disease trials, including how you prepared inoculum and assessed disease. Highlight any relevant research projects you've contributed to.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be hosting visits from funders and breeders, it's crucial to demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills. Practice explaining complex scientific concepts in a clear and engaging way.
✨Emphasize Flexibility and Proactivity
The role requires occasional weekend work and adaptability to changing conditions. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed similar challenges in past roles or projects.
