At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to innovate crop science and improve sustainable agriculture.
- Company: NIAB, the UK's leading crop science organisation with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic lab environment with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in crop improvement and work with cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: Degree in Plant Sciences or related field; strong molecular biology skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35002 - 35002 £ per year.
Location: Park Farm Campus, Villa Road, Histon, CB24 9AT
Salary: £35,002 per annum
Contract: 2-year fixed term
Working hours: 37 hours per week (Monday to Friday)
Closing date: 6 August 2026
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Plant Molecular Biologist to join our Crop Transformation Group at our Cambridge site on a 2-year fixed term contract. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative crop science research and work alongside a supportive team developing technologies that will help shape the future of sustainable agriculture. Working within a collaborative team of scientists and technical specialists, you will manage molecular biology activities supporting both commercial and academic research programmes across multiple crop species. This is a practical, laboratory-based position offering the opportunity to contribute to the development and implementation of innovative technologies that drive crop improvement.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Contribute to molecular biology activities that support crop transformation and method development projects.
- Use bioinformatic tools to analyse and interpret plant genome sequences and genetic constructs.
- Design and deliver construct cloning, gene editing, and genotyping activities across multiple crop species.
- Utilise light, fluorescence and confocal microscopy techniques, including reporter gene analysis and histochemical staining.
- Develop innovative molecular biology approaches to support crop improvement and precision breeding.
- Share knowledge through scientific reports, presentations, publications and collaborative discussions.
- Line manage senior technical staff and provide training and supervision to students and colleagues.
- Support laboratory management activities and contribute to scientific outreach through demonstrations, presentations and stakeholder engagement.
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.
About You
We are looking for a talented scientist with a strong molecular biology background and a passion for crop improvement.
Essential Requirements
- Degree (BSc or equivalent) in Plant Sciences or a related discipline with a strong molecular biology or biotechnology component.
- Strong expertise in molecular biology techniques, including traditional and advanced cloning strategies, expression analysis, and qPCR/dPCR assay design.
- Practical experience of gene editing, from construct design through to analysis of edited plants, ideally within polyploid crop species.
- Experience using bioinformatics tools, genome browsers and gene expression databases.
- Hands-on microscopy experience, including fluorescence and confocal imaging.
- Excellent organisational, problem-solving and communication skills.
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft 365 applications and cloning software such as SnapGene.
- Ability to manage workloads both independently and within a team environment.
Desirable Requirements
- PhD in a crop plant-related discipline with a molecular biology, gene editing or precision breeding focus.
- Experience with advanced gene editing technologies, including base or prime editing.
- Knowledge of plant promoter characterisation and reporter assays.
- Strong numeracy and data analysis skills.
Location
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 Emma Wallington (emma.wallington@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.
About the Application Process
Apply by clicking the Apply button above, please read the Job Description, which provides full details about the role, application process and what to expect.
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. Any offer of sponsorship will be subject to the role meeting the skill and salary thresholds and to the individual meeting the Home Office eligibility criteria.
- We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and do not discriminate on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under the Equality Act 2010.
- Niab reserves the right to withdraw or close this vacancy at any time.
Plant Molecular Biologist employer: NIABHR
Niab is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Wymondham, Norfolk, where you can contribute to pioneering agricultural research while enjoying a balanced mix of field and office work. With a strong commitment to employee development, generous benefits including 25 days of holiday, and a culture that promotes equality and inclusion, Niab provides a rewarding opportunity for those passionate about advancing sustainable farming practices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Plant Molecular Biologist
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like NIABHR. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like NIABHR!
We think you need these skills to ace Plant Molecular Biologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show NIABHR that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at NIABHR.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that NIABHR does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at NIABHR
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at NIABHR. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into NIABHR's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at NIABHR. This shows your passion for the industry!
