Pathology Technician

Job title:

Pathology Technician

Company

National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB)

Job description

Pathology TechnicianHiston, Cambridge CB24 9NZJoin our Plant Pathology team!Are you passionate about safeguarding Britain’s arable crops? Do you thrive in agile environments where science meets practical application? Look no further! We are seeking an enthusiastic and organised Pathology Technician to be part of our friendly team. With plenty of room to learn on the job, this is a much sought after role.As a member of the NIAB team, you will be contributing to the Crop Science Centre, an alliance between NIAB and the University of Cambridge, with a shared vision to deliver sustainable food production across the UK. With over 250 hectares of commercial cropping and field trials, NIAB provides an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in advancing the science of crop cultivation.Salary: from £23,088 per annum, depending on experience with paid overtime being available.Contract: PermanentWorking hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to FridayWho is NIAB?NIAB is a leading crop science organisation at the forefront of research in plant genetics, pathology, agronomy, farming systems, and data science. With our headquarters in Cambridge and regional offices spread across the UK, we are on a mission to revolutionise crop production across arable, forage, and horticulture sectors.At NIAB, you will be part of a team of nearly 400 experts who are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of scientific research. As an independent research organisation eligible for competitive UKRI funding calls, NIAB fosters strong ties with industry, government, and academia, providing unmatched opportunities for collaboration within the plant sciences sector.What you will do:

• Plan and Set Up Pathology Trials: Dive into the heart of research by planning and setting up exciting pathology trials.
• Isolate Plant Pathogens: In our microbiology lab, you will work with plant pathogen isolates, maintaining our valuable collection.
• Apply Pathogen Inoculum: Get hands-on with plants as you produce, prepare, and apply pathogen inoculum.
• Assess Trials: Be the detective – score diseases, process results, and interpret data from our trials.
• Contribute to Research Projects: Your expertise will drive our research forward.
• Oversee Growth Rooms and Lab Equipment: Keep our growth rooms and key lab equipment in top shape.

Why join us?

• Motivated Team: Our Plant Pathology team is a vibrant community of over 20 staff, PhD students, and visiting workers. We are passionate about our work.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access extensive walk-in growth rooms, glasshouses, and well-equipped laboratories.
• Field Trials Across Cambridgeshire and Norfolk: Explore different sites as you contribute to high-quality field trials.
• Variety: Your work will span the laboratory, field, and office, adapting to the seasons.
• Challenge: Embrace occasional weekend work and unsociable hours – we are tackling real-world problems so sometimes we need to work outside core hours.
• Physical Engagement: From standing and walking to occasional manual handling, you will stay active.

What you will need to succeed:

• A BSc in Plant Pathology or similar experience.
• You must have a full UK driving licence and a willingness to drive light passenger vehicles as access to sites is inaccessible by public transport.
• You should have an understanding of UK arable crop production systems.
• You need to be able to organise and prioritise your work.
• Demonstrate consistent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Experience with plant pathology and culturing fungi or oomycetes is desirable.
• Competency in relevant Microsoft Office applications.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility, proactive attitude, and self-motivation.

LocationYou will be based in our state-of-the-art facilities at NIAB Park Farm, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9NZ which is equipped with molecular biology and plant growth amenities, including extensive glasshouses, walk-in growth rooms, and containment units for genetically modified plant trials.Cambridge Park Farm site:BenefitsBenefits include 25 days holiday plus public holidays and 3 days off during the Christmas period, flexible working, generous sick pay, attractive pension scheme, income protection, life assurance, employee discount scheme, employee assistance programme, cycle to work scheme and free on-site parking.Ready to make a difference? Apply now and be part of our mission to protect crops and ensure a thriving agricultural future!Informal enquiries are welcome. Please contact Kostya Kanyuka, Head of Plant Pathology: kostya.kanyuka@niab.com or Tom Wood, Principal Plant Pathologist:To apply, click the ‘Apply’ button or visit our website: for further details and to apply directly. Any questions? Email: or call Human Resources on 01223 342282.Closing date: 30 June 2024.Apply soon as we may shortlist prior to the closing date.NIAB actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. As a Disability Confident Employer, we have a positive approach to employing people living with a disability.

Expected salary

£23088 per year

Location

Cambridge

Job date

Sat, 08 Jun 2024 22:01:01 GMT

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