Scientific Technician

Rothamsted Research Ltd.; St Albans; On-site; GBP 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural research institute in the UK is seeking a Scientific Technician to support innovative plant research in Dr Christophe Lambing’s Laboratory. This 9-month fixed-term position is perfect for a motivated scientist with a background in genetics and molecular biology, providing an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with modern techniques. You'll be involved in characterizing Arabidopsis mutant lines and conducting various molecular biology experiments. A supportive environment fosters learning and development.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

Generous pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Experience in genetics and molecular biology.
• Strong understanding of biological concepts.
• Able to work with precision and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Characterise Arabidopsis mutant lines.
• Collect and prepare plant samples for genotyping.
• Conduct DNA extractions and PCR.
• Assist with molecular cloning and plant transformation.
• Contribute to high-throughput phenotyping of recombination events.

Skills

Genetics

Molecular biology

Attention to detail

Collaboration

Education

University degree in relevant discipline

Tools

PCR

Microscopy

Job description

Scientific Technician – Plant Molecular Biology & Genetics

9‑month fixed term | Harpenden | Dr Christophe Lambing’s Laboratory

Are you passionate about plant science, genetics, and cutting‑edge molecular biology? Do you want to contribute to high‑impact research uncovering how genetic information is exchanged and inherited? If so, we’d love you to join our team.

We are inviting applications for a Scientific Technician to help the research programme of Dr Christophe Lambing at Rothamsted Research. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and curious scientist to gain hands-on experience in a vibrant research environment.

About the Research

Our group investigates the fundamental biology of meiotic recombination—a process crucial for fertility, genetic diversity, and genome evolution. During meiosis, hundreds of programmed DNA double‑strand breaks are repaired through unique germ‑cell pathways. While essential, many aspects of this mechanism remain unknown.

This project focuses on Arabidopsis and aims to:

• Decode the molecular pathway driving germ cell differentiation
• Understand how these pathways influence meiotic recombination
• Develop and apply innovative genetic, epigenetic, and molecular biology techniques to answer long‑standing questions in plant reproductive biology

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll play a key role in supporting experimental work across the lab, including:

• Characterising Arabidopsis mutant lines
• Collecting and preparing plant samples for genotyping
• Conducting DNA extractions, PCR, and microscopy
• Assisting with molecular cloning and plant transformation
• Contributing to high‑throughput phenotyping of recombination events
• Working closely with a postdoctoral researcher to deliver high‑quality data and impactful research outputs

This role offers the chance to broaden your technical expertise and work across a wide range of modern molecular and genetic techniques.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in genetics and molecular biology
• Scientifically curious with a strong understanding of biological concepts
• Able to work with precision, accuracy, and attention to detail
• A clear communicator with a collaborative, team‑focused mindset
• Ideally educated to university level or higher in a relevant discipline

You’ll have expert guidance , but we also value proactive individuals who enjoy taking ownership of their experiments and contributing to the wider success of the team.

Interested?

For informal enquiries or further information, please contact:
Dr Christophe Lambing – [e-mail]

About The Company

Established in 1843, Rothamsted Research is one of the UK's leading Research Institutes delivering world class agricultural science. Our commitment to learning and development, equality, diversity and inclusion and flexibility in working arrangements creates a positive work life balance and enables a welcoming environment for all prospective employees.

As a Disability Confident Employer we are committed to making reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process and all disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview. If this is required, please contact us. Applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or age are welcomed, providing the required criteria is met.

We have an attractive benefits package including 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme and an attractive campus offering cultural and recreational activities.

c.£40,000 per annum dependent on experience