Scientific Technician

Scientific Technician

Full-Time 24225 - 26573 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support groundbreaking research in plant molecular biology and genetics.
  • Company: Join Rothamsted Research, a leader in agricultural science since 1843.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, a pension scheme, and a vibrant campus life.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on plant science and contribute to high-impact research.
  • Qualifications: Experience in genetics and molecular biology; strong attention to detail.
  • Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The predicted salary is between 24225 - 26573 ÂŁ per year.

Position: 9‑month fixed term in Harpenden at Dr Christophe Lambing’s Laboratory. Salary: £24,225 - £26,573 per annum.

Are you passionate about plant science, genetics, and cutting‑edge molecular biology? Do you want to contribute to high‑impact research uncovering how genetic information is exchanged and inherited? If so, we’d love you to join our team.

About the Research

Our group investigates the fundamental biology of meiotic recombination—a process crucial for fertility, genetic diversity, and genome evolution. This project focuses on Arabidopsis and aims to:

  • Decode the molecular pathway driving germ cell differentiation
  • Understand how these pathways influence meiotic recombination
  • Develop and apply innovative genetic, epigenetic, and molecular biology techniques to answer long‑standing questions in plant reproductive biology

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll play a key role in supporting experimental work across the lab, including:

  • Characterising Arabidopsis mutant lines
  • Collecting and preparing plant samples for genotyping
  • Conducting DNA extractions, PCR, and microscopy
  • Assisting with molecular cloning and plant transformation
  • Contributing to high‑throughput phenotyping of recombination events
  • Working closely with a postdoctoral researcher to deliver high‑quality data and impactful research outputs

This role offers the chance to broaden your technical expertise and work across a wide range of modern molecular and genetic techniques.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

  • Experienced in genetics and molecular biology
  • Scientifically curious with a strong understanding of biological concepts
  • Able to work with precision, accuracy, and attention to detail
  • A clear communicator with a collaborative, team‑focused mindset
  • Ideally educated to university level or higher in a relevant discipline

You’ll have expert guidance, but we also value proactive individuals who enjoy taking ownership of their experiments and contributing to the wider success of the team.

Interested? For informal enquiries or further information, please contact: Dr Christophe Lambing – christophe.lambing@rothamsted.ac.uk

About The Company

Established in 1843, Rothamsted Research is one of the UK's leading Research Institutes delivering world class agricultural science. Our commitment to learning and development, equality, diversity and inclusion and flexibility in working arrangements creates a positive work life balance and enables a welcoming environment for all prospective employees. As a Disability Confident Employer we are committed to making reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process and all disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview. Applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or age are welcomed, providing the required criteria is met. We have an attractive benefits package including 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme and an attractive campus offering cultural and recreational activities.

Scientific Technician employer: Rothamsted Research

Rothamsted Research is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to cutting-edge agricultural science and fostering a collaborative work culture. Located in Harpenden, the institute offers a supportive environment with ample opportunities for professional growth, including access to innovative research projects and a comprehensive benefits package that includes 30 days of annual leave and a generous pension scheme. Join us to be part of a diverse team dedicated to impactful research in plant molecular biology and genetics.
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Contact Detail:

Rothamsted Research Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Scientific Technician

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of plant molecular biology and genetics. Attend seminars, workshops, or even online webinars to meet potential colleagues and mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical skills and knowledge about Arabidopsis and molecular techniques. Practice common interview questions and think about how your experiences align with the role. Confidence is key, so show them you’re ready to contribute!

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t just apply and wait! Follow up on your applications after a week or two. A quick email expressing your continued interest can set you apart from other candidates. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and genuinely excited about the opportunity.

✨Tip Number 4

Check out our website for more opportunities and resources. We’ve got loads of tips and tools to help you land that dream job in plant science. Remember, we’re here to support you every step of the way!

We think you need these skills to ace Scientific Technician

Molecular Biology Techniques
Genetics
DNA Extraction
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
Microscopy
Molecular Cloning
Plant Transformation
High-Throughput Phenotyping
Attention to Detail
Collaboration
Scientific Curiosity
Precision and Accuracy
Data Analysis
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for plant science and molecular biology! In your application, share why you're excited about the research we do and how it aligns with your interests.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in genetics and molecular biology. We want to see how your skills match the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your lab work and any techniques you’ve mastered.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story. Explain how your background and experiences make you a great fit for our team, and don’t forget to mention any specific projects or techniques you’re keen to work on!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, plus you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!

How to prepare for a job interview at Rothamsted Research

✨Know Your Science

Brush up on your knowledge of plant molecular biology and genetics. Be prepared to discuss key concepts related to meiotic recombination and the specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like DNA extraction and PCR. Showing that you understand the science behind the role will impress the interviewers.

✨Show Your Curiosity

Demonstrate your scientific curiosity by asking insightful questions about the research being conducted in Dr Christophe Lambing’s laboratory. This not only shows your interest in the position but also highlights your proactive nature, which is something they value highly.

✨Highlight Your Precision

Since attention to detail is crucial for this role, be ready to share examples from your past experiences where precision and accuracy were key to your success. Whether it’s a lab experiment or a project, concrete examples will help illustrate your capabilities.

✨Emphasise Teamwork

This position requires collaboration with a postdoctoral researcher and other team members. Be sure to talk about your previous experiences working in teams, how you communicate effectively, and how you contribute to group success. A collaborative mindset is essential for fitting into their team-focused environment.

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