Scientific Assistant: Technology Development (12-month Fixed Term Contract)

Are you available for a 12-month contract and looking for a new challenge within a fast-paced laboratory environment? We have an exciting opportunity to develop a range of technical skills whilst working with innovative genome-editing technology.   

Role Purpose 

Tropic’s Technology Development team uses state-of-the-art genome-editing tools to develop tropical crops with novel traits. The team works at the interface between molecular biology and plant transformation and we are looking for a new Scientific Assistant to support trait enablement projects in rice on a 12-month fixed term contract. In addition to rice transformation support, this role offers a great opportunity to utilise genome editing technology and work with a wide variety of molecular biology and bioinformatic tools. 

Key Responsibilities  

• Transform rice plants with genome-editing plasmids and regenerate them using tissue culture 

• Identify edited plants using genotyping techniques 

• Conduct experiments to optimize and improve efficiency of tissue culture conditions 

• Support molecular cloning to design and develop plant transformation vectors  

• Execute a wide variety of protocols, following your training and SOPs closely 

• Generate accurate records of your work and results using an electronic lab notebook 

• Collaborate across multiple projects to help the team reach their goals 

• Train and support other team members as needed 

Requirements 

Essential 

• BSc/MSc in Plant Sciences, Biochemistry, Biology, or any other related discipline 

• Experience with standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, PCR, bacterial transformation and RNA purification) 

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced and dynamic team environment 

• Organised and precise, able to produce accurate records and presentations 

• Strong communication skills, able to discuss complex problems clearly 

• Motivated self-starter with strong troubleshooting experience   

Desirable 

• 1-3 years working in a research environment (academic or commercial) 

• Experience in plant tissue culture techniques, preferably in rice, including sterilization techniques and aseptic handling of plant materials 

• Understanding of CRISPR/Cas gene editing technology and/or RNAi biology 

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. 

Our vision is to become a leading seed business with significant ownership of its products from the laboratory to the field, while maintaining constructive relationships with growers and consumers based on transparency and trust.  

Why Join Tropic? 

• Diverse workforce operating in a dynamic working environment
   

• Excellent learning and career development opportunities 

• Social events throughout the year 

• Competitive compensation and benefits including: Private Medical Insurance, Medical Cash Plan, 25 days annual leave, Group Income Protection and Life Assurance  

Further Information  

• Job Location – Norwich UK   

• Time Requirement – Full Time   

• Contract – 12-Month Fixed Term 

• Closing date – 1/7/2025 

If you are looking to work in a dynamic company, striving towards a real-world impact, then consider joining our team and apply here!