At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative crop biotechnology projects and develop cutting-edge technology platforms.
- Company: Join Tropic, a leader in agricultural gene-editing with a mission to tackle food security.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, private medical care, 25 days leave, and tailored career development.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture with opportunities for mentorship and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact on global agriculture while advancing your scientific career.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field with expertise in molecular biology and cell-based screening.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
We are looking for a talented and experienced senior scientist to deliver innovative crop biotechnology projects through high-quality experimental science.
Job Purpose
Our Technology Development 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 technology projects, in particular the development of fast turnaround cell screening assays to support gene editing and RNAi implementation in crops. You don’t need a plant science background. Your scientific drive and expertise in cell-based screening and molecular biology is what we’re looking for – we’ll help you apply it to crops. Beyond your own experimental work, you’ll contribute to team-wide scientific strategy, mentor colleagues and help shape TechDev’s direction.
Responsibilities
- Own and develop technology platforms as core tools for gene editing and RNAi evaluation at scale.
- Design, execute and troubleshoot complex experiments independently, interpreting and presenting results to drive project decisions.
- Seek out and apply new methods and technologies in line with innovation and business goals.
- 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
- PhD or equivalent in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Plant Biotechnology or related field, with additional postdoctoral or industry experience.
- Strong expertise in cell-based screening, tissue culture, gene editing and genotyping, with bioinformatics experience an advantage.
- Proven ability to design, troubleshoot and optimise complex experimental workflows and deliver high-quality outputs.
- Demonstration of excellent scientific judgement to justify and implement successful new project ideas.
- Proven independent ownership of complex research projects with clear delivery against objectives.
- Comfortable with delivering in a fast‑paced, ambitious environment where you will be adaptable to evolving business needs.
- Proactive, curious and innovative – someone who contributes beyond their own project and actively improves the team around them.
- Clear communicator, 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?
- Own a technology platform from the ground up, 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
Contract – Full Time, Permanent
Closing Date – 16/6/2026
Ready to shape ambitious science with real‑world impact? Apply here.
Senior Scientist – Technology Development in Norwich employer: Tropic
Tropic is an exceptional employer for those passionate about innovative agricultural science, offering a unique opportunity to own and develop technology platforms that directly impact global food security. With a strong emphasis on career development, mentorship, and a collaborative work culture, employees are encouraged to contribute beyond their individual projects while enjoying competitive benefits such as private medical care and generous annual leave. Join us in a fast-paced environment where your scientific expertise can lead to meaningful advancements in crop biotechnology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Scientist – 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. 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Scientist – 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 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.
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 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
✨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. 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'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. This shows your passion for the industry!
