An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Assistant / Technical Science Support to join the Balk Group at the John Innes Centre, working on cutting-edge science in the field of Biochemistry and Metabolism.

About the Balk Group

The research of Janneke Balk’s group is focused on iron homeostasis in plants. We use genetic, cell biology and biochemical approaches to understand the function of proteins involved in iron uptake, transport and regulatory processes. The basic knowledge we gain can be used for improving plant nutrition, including enhancing the iron levels in plant foods through molecular breeding, known as biofortification. We work closely together with the group of Cristobal Uauy on increasing iron in wheat grain.

The role

The research assistant will select gene-edited wheat lines for field trials, as part of ongoing efforts to develop high-iron wheat. Tasks will include genotyping, sequencing, phenotyping and crossing. They will be part of an exciting international collaboration funded by UK-CGIAR to exploit gene-editing for global food security.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to enhance your skills in plant breeding and genetics, while developing experience with gene-edited crops.

The ideal candidate

The ideal candidate should have an MSc in plant science, crop genetics or equivalent. A PhD degree in wheat genetics would be advantageous but is not essential. Practical knowledge of high throughput genotyping and experience with phenotyping is essential. Knowledge of CRISPR/Cas gene editing and biofortification is desirable.

Candidates should have experience in performing research on plant models and giving presentations on research data, as well as previous experience with plant phenotyping and sampling.

The post holder will have excellent communication skills, time management and organisational skills, and the ability to independently using initiative and applying problem solving skills.

Additional information

Ideally, this role will be part-time at 30h per week (4 days) for 18 months. However, candidates seeking full-time employment will also be considered for a duration of 14 months.

Further information and details of how to apply can be found here or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1004661.

This role does not meet the full salary requirements set by UKVI to allow for visa sponsorship.  However, some individuals may still be eligible for visa sponsorship depending on their personal circumstances.  If you require visa sponsorship, please click here to find out if you qualify before applying. Please note, the occupation code for this role is 2119, which is not on the immigration salary list.

We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity.  As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

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