Tissue Culture Technician in Cambridge

We are seeking a highly motivated Tissue Culture Technician to join our Crop Transformation team on a 2-year fixed-term contract. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge plant biotechnology research, supporting the delivery of genetically modified and gene-edited crops across a range of research projects. Working within a collaborative scientific environment, you will undertake plant tissue culture and transformation activities primarily using Agrobacterium-mediated techniques, whilst supporting a range of laboratory, molecular biology and plant growth activities.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Carry out plant tissue culture and crop transformation experiments
• Prepare growth media, stock solutions and undertake routine laboratory support activities, including autoclaving
• Sample plant tissues for DNA extraction and microscopy analysis
• Support molecular biology activities, including DNA extraction and PCR, where required
• Assist with plant growth, propagation, harvesting and seed processing activities
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records
• Contribute to visitor engagement activities
• Work effectively with colleagues to ensure project objectives and deadlines are achieved

You will work across laboratory, growth room, glasshouse and office environments at our Park Farm campus. The role involves regular use of laboratory equipment including microscopes and visual displays, exposure to plant material, pollen and dust or compost/soil particles, and occasional manual handling of items up to 25kg.

Essential Requirements

• BSc degree in Plant Science or Biotechnology, or equivalent relevant experience
• Practical experience of plant tissue culture and/or plant transformation techniques
• Good aseptic laboratory technique
• Experience of growing or propagating plants
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Competence in Microsoft Office 365 applications including Outlook, Word, Excel and Powerpoint
• High levels of accuracy, consistency and attention to detail
• Good manual dexterity and colour perception

Desirable Requirements

• MSc in a relevant scientific discipline
• Experience of crop transformation methods across different species
• Knowledge of microscopy techniques
• Awareness of molecular techniques used in transgenic plant analysis
• Good numerical and data-handling skills

The role is based at Niab’s Park Farm Campus, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9AT — just 4 miles from Cambridge city centre. The site offers free on-site parking and is well connected by cycle routes and regular bus services to the city centre and railway station. It is also close to Junction 32 of the A14, with easy access to the M11, A10 and A11.

Informal enquiries are welcome, please contact Ruth Bates (ruth.bates@niab.com)

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.

Important Information

• This is a UK-based role. You will be required to demonstrate your right to work in the UK as part of the recruitment process.
• Where the role meets the relevant criteria, we are able to consider Skilled Worker visa sponsorship in line with Home Office requirements.
• We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
• Niab reserves the right to withdraw or close this vacancy at any time.