Research Assistant – Entomology in Dundee

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated individual to gain experience in lab and field entomology skills as part of the sustainable agriculture research conducted in the Ecological Sciences Department. As part of an experienced research team, you will care for and maintain our collection of live insect cultures and assist with requests from external and internal stakeholders for samples. You will collect and process weekly insect trap samples as part of national monitoring schemes, maintaining accurate records for external stakeholders. You will assist in field experiments, following specified protocols for physical and biological environmental monitoring and lab-based sample processing. This includes data recording and checking, taxonomic identification, and the maintenance of lab and fieldwork equipment. You will work in a variety of settings including commercial and research farms, interacting with other institute staff and external stakeholders. You will have the opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge through formal training and by working with other researchers. The post is based in Dundee, with a requirement for frequent travel within Scotland, and is fixed term for 12 months.

Main duties of post holder:

• Carry out regular maintenance of live insect cultures held in the Hutton insect collection
• Assist with requests for culture samples from internal and external stakeholders
• Collect and process weekly samples from insect traps for national insect monitoring schemes
• Work as a member of a team to carry out field experiments and field surveys
• Lab processing of a range of sample types including soil, plants, and invertebrates
• Data recording and entry using digital and paper-based methods
• Maintain lab and fieldwork equipment
• Assist with demonstrations and exhibits at stakeholder engagement activities and events
• Engage fully in training to develop all necessary skills

Person Specification:

Essential:

• BSc in a relevant discipline or equivalent experience
• Practical experience in a lab or field setting
• Experience of following standard procedures or protocols
• Appreciation of the need for accuracy and precision in all aspects of sampling, data recording and handling
• Responsible and reliable team worker with good team communication skills
• Flexibility in working hours – will need to work later during harvest, or to get a job finished and there may be occasional overnight stays
• Patient, and methodical, with good organisational skills
• Ability to follow safety procedures e.g. health and safety requirements
• willingness to do fieldwork in any weather
• Basic computing skills (e.g. word processing, spreadsheet and data handling, PowerPoint)

Desirable:

• Demonstrable interest in entomology and sustainable agriculture research
• Full driver's license

Benefits offered:

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - A confidential service available to support employees and their families with work or personal problems.
• Annual Leave – Generous entitlement up to 40.5 days a year, with carry over possible and guaranteed time-off for Christmas.
• Pension - Employer Contribution of 15% in a Personal Pension Plan and employee contribution flexibility.
• Self-managed hours and Flexible Working – option to manage and spread your working time in line with organisational needs to create a healthy work-life balance.

Our Commitment to Equality and Diversity:

The James Hutton Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.