Laboratory Technician – Tissue Culture (12 months fixed-term contract)

We are looking for an enthusiastic Laboratory Technician to support tissue-culture whilst developing molecular biology skills, working with cutting-edge gene-editing technology.

Job Purpose

The GEiGS® (genome-editing induced gene silencing) team develops and deploys the core technology of Tropic Biosciences. We use genome-editing tools to redirect RNA-silencing genes (e.g., miRNAs) to novel targets, including pests and pathogens, to develop disease-resistant plants!

The team works at the interface between molecular biology, plant transformation, and bioinformatics, and we are looking for a new technician to support GEiGS® rice research projects. The successful candidate will be primarily working on rice tissue culture to improve our GEiGS® technology. In addition, the candidate will have a great opportunity to learn genome editing technology and use a wide variety of molecular biology tools.

Responsibilities

• Transform plants with genome-editing plasmids, and regenerate them using tissue culture
• Identify edited plants using high-throughput 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.
• 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 with lab experience
• Good knowledge of molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, PCR, bacterial transformation RNA)
• 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

• MSc in Plant Sciences, Biochemistry, Biology, or any other related discipline
• 1-3 years working in a research environment ((academic or commercial)
• Experience in plant tissue culture techniques, including sterilization techniques, and aseptic handling of plant materials
• Understanding of CRISPR/Cas gene editing technology

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?

• Excellent learning and career development opportunities
• Social events throughout the year
• Competitive compensation and benefits including: Private Medical Insurance through Vitality, 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 – 8th March 2023

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