Research Assistant

Hours per week 37 Project Title Research Assistant – molecular microbiology and plant-fungal chemical signalling Expected/Ideal Start Date 01 Dec 2026 Months Duration 24 Interview Date 24 Nov 2026

Research Assistants enhance the output of a research group by providing technical and administrative support to the Group Leader and group members.

Internal:
Line manager, group members and, as necessary, other researchers, research support staff and students across the Institute. External:
Collaborators

Enhance the output of a research group by executing and refining existing experimental protocols and/or administrative procedures, assisting colleagues with trouble-shooting as necessary Run key items of equipment providing services and/or techniques, taking responsibility for purchases, maintenance and repairs Undertake routine administrative tasks, such as maintenance of laboratory supplies and stocks Mentor/supervise less experienced researchers, encouraging scientific excellence and provide guidance and training on specialised items of equipment Plan, perform, trouble-shoot and analyse experiments as and when necessary, providing preliminary data Design and supervise small research projects for students Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, Scientific Integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements Assist in the preparation of research proposals and manuscripts, collaborating internally and externally as appropriate Contribute to the smooth running of the group, including through the effective use of resources, supervision of visitors to the laboratory and assisting with training others, encouraging scientific excellence Disseminate research findings and establish reputation through participation in national conferences and exhibitions Support the profile and reputation of the Institute by participating in relevant engagement activities (eg, school visits or open days) Continually strive for excellence, seeking out and acting on feedback and relevant learning and development opportunities As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, for example, contributing to the work of Institute committees

Requirement Importance A BSc in molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, chemical ecology or a related discipline Essential A PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, chemical ecology or a related discipline Desirable

Requirement Importance Practical laboratory experience in molecular biology, microbiology, genetics or a related experimental field Essential Experience in molecular biology workflows involving DNA, RNA or gene expression analysis. Essential

Requirement Importance Experience of oral research presentations Essential Experience with molecular cloning, genetic engineering or related laboratory techniques Essential Preparing data / information for grant proposals Desirable Proven record in scientific writing Desirable Provided technical training Desirable Supervision of students and visiting workers Desirable Demonstrated ability to perform research Desirable

Requirement Importance Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a team Essential Demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills Essential Excellent time management and organisational skills Essential Ability to prioritise to meet the demands of the group Essential Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to…