At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative crop biotechnology projects and manage a talented team of researchers.
- Company: Join Tropic, a leading agricultural gene-editing company making a real-world impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, private medical care, 25 days leave, and tailored career development.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with social events and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a difference in global food security while advancing your career in cutting-edge science.
- Qualifications: PhD in Molecular Biology or related field with proven leadership and project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 41850 - 51150 £ per year.
We are looking for a talented and experienced scientist to design and deliver innovative crop biotechnology projects through leadership of the trait enablement arm of the Technology Development (TechDev) team.
Our TechDev team innovates across gene editing, RNAi, plant transformation and assay development to support Tropic’s crop improvement programmes and accelerate research into real-world impact. In this role, you will own the delivery of key, high-profile technology projects to support gene editing and RNAi implementation in crops. To achieve this, you will lead and manage the trait enablement team of up to seven researchers and technical experts.
You will combine scientific expertise with people and project management skills to plan and implement a portfolio of cutting-edge projects. You will be an excellent communicator who will contribute to team-wide scientific strategy, mentor colleagues and help shape TechDev’s direction.
Responsibilities
- Own a portfolio of projects including gene editing optimization and novel RNAi strategies in crops.
- Manage people and be responsible for their professional development.
- Manage resource, mitigate risks and deliver projects on time.
- Communicate progress, risks and recommendations clearly to colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.
- Contribute to TechDev’s scientific strategy and direction beyond your own workstream.
- Mentor colleagues, share expertise generously and champion a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
- Maintain rigorous records and champion safe, high-quality laboratory practice.
Requirements
Technical
- PhD or equivalent in Molecular Biology, Plant Biotechnology or related field, with additional relevant postdoctoral or industry experience.
- Proven ability to lead a team to deliver high-quality technical outputs under time pressure.
- Proven ability to design and troubleshoot complex science plans.
- Critically assess data and make evidence-based recommendations and decisions.
- Expertise in crop transformation, gene editing or RNAi, particularly in an industry setting, is an advantage.
Transferable
- Demonstrable ownership and accountability for your work, and your team’s performance.
- Proven management skills and drive to support the professional development of your team and colleagues.
- Adaptable to evolving business needs, and able to deliver in a fast-paced, ambitious environment.
- Proactive, curious and innovative – someone who contributes beyond their own project and actively improves the team around them.
- Clear communicator to key stakeholders, meticulous record-keeper and genuine team player.
About Us
Tropic is one of the world’s leading agricultural gene-editing companies. Our team is dedicated to the development and commercialization of high-performing varieties of tropical crops to provide significant benefits to growers, processors and consumers globally, tackling real-world problems around food security and sustainability.
We use our proprietary GEiGS® platform and cutting-edge gene editing tools to develop improved varieties with higher yields, disease resistance and sustainability traits. The TechDev team is a central hub for the development and implementation of new technologies that address global agricultural challenges.
Why Join Tropic?
- Lead a technology team, with direct impact on Tropic’s pipeline and science strategy.
- Science with real stakes – crops that feed and sustain billions.
- Tailored career development as the team and company scales, with cross-functional visibility across R&D.
- Social events throughout the year.
- Competitive package including Private Medical Care, Medical Cash Plan, 25 days annual leave and Life Assurance.
Further Information
Location – Norwich, UK
Contract – Full Time, Permanent
Closing Date – 28th September 2026
Ready to shape ambitious science with real-world impact? Apply here.
Team Lead – Technology Development in Norwich employer: Tropic Biosciences
Tropic Biosciences is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture in the heart of Norwich. Employees benefit from hands-on experience in regulatory processes, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking agricultural advancements. With a commitment to employee development and a supportive environment, this role offers a unique pathway to expand your skills while making a meaningful impact in the field of biotechnology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Team Lead – Technology Development in Norwich
✨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 Tropic Biosciences. 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 Tropic Biosciences!
We think you need these skills to ace Team Lead – Technology Development in Norwich
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 Tropic Biosciences 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 Tropic Biosciences.
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 Tropic Biosciences 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 Tropic Biosciences
✨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 Tropic Biosciences. 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 Tropic Biosciences'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 Tropic Biosciences. This shows your passion for the industry!
