Molecular Plant Pathologist (Senior Technician)

Location: NIAB Park Farm, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9NZ

Working hours: 37 per week, Monday-Friday. 

ABOUT THE JOB 

Use your molecular biology and microbiology skills to help discover how plant pathogens infect their hosts and evolve resistance to fungicides! 

We are recruiting a molecular plant pathologist to join our friendly plant pathology team to provide molecular biology and microbiology research support for projects involving fungicide sensitivity testing, plant pathogenicity testing, genotyping, and functional genetics. 

Our Plant Pathology team is a vibrant community of over 20 staff, PhD students, and visiting researchers. We are passionate about understanding the biology of plant pathogens and their interactions with plants, and applying this knowledge to provide growers with tools to protect their crops. This post will support a number of projects in the Plant Pathology department, including studies into fungicide resistance and effector function in fungal pathogens of cereals. 

Are you passionate about harnessing the power of molecular biology to tackle global agricultural challenges? 

At NIAB, we are at the forefront of cutting-edge research that helps protect crops and ensure food security. As a Molecular Plant Pathologist, you will support a number of projects in the Plant Pathology department, including studies into fungicide resistance and effector function in fungal pathogens of cereals. We are passionate and dedicated in understanding the biology of plant pathogens and their interactions with plants, and applying this knowledge to provide growers with tools to protect their crops. You will play a pivotal role in understanding how plant pathogens infect their hosts and evolve resistance to fungicides. 

As Molecular Plant Pathologist, your key duties include: 

• Fungicide resistance testing: isolation of plant pathogenic fungi, maintaining isolate collections, sensitivity bioassays and data analysis
• Plant pathogen genotyping: DNA extractions, PCR, preparation of samples for sequencing (Sanger or NGS), sequence data analysis, molecular diagnostics such as qPCR
• Assisting with research aimed at characterisation of virulence effectors and fungicide resistant alleles in cereal-infecting fungi: development of various DNA constructs, viral (VIGS/VOX) and fungal transformations, qRT-PCR, validation of protein-protein interactions
• Assistance with other projects requiring molecular biology support; general laboratory support e.g. ensuring laboratory equipment and consumable stock levels are maintained 

The role is primarily lab-based, with some work in the glasshouse or growth room, working with plants and fungi. 

This varied role will provide opportunities to further develop your skills across a range of molecular techniques and to expand your knowledge of plant pathology and crop protection. There will also be opportunities to present your work and contribute to the preparation of peer-reviewed publications should you wish. 

Who you will be working with

At NIAB, you will collaborate with a diverse and dedicated team of experts in the field of plant pathology and molecular biology. Our multidisciplinary environment fosters innovation and teamwork, enabling you to learn from leading researchers and contribute to impactful projects. You will be supported by experienced colleagues, including Dr Nichola Hawkins, our Fungicide Resistance Research Leader, and Dr Kostya Kanyuka, Head of Plant Pathology, both of whom are committed to advancing our understanding of plant pathogens and their interactions with crops. 

Location

The role is based at NIAB Park Farm, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9NZ. Park Farm is 4 miles from Cambridge city centre, with free on-site parking and linked by cycle ways and regular buses to Cambridge city centre and railway station. Close to Junction 32 of A14, with easy access to M11, A10 and A11. 

Informal enquiries are welcome, please contact Nichola Hawkins, Fungicide Resistance Research Leader, nichola.hawkins@niab.com, or Kostya Kanyuka, Head of Plant Pathology, kostya.kanyuka@niab.com. 

Benefits 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, free on-site parking and great colleagues. 

ABOUT YOU 

Essential requirements

Ideally you will have:

• A BSc degree in a relevant subject (such as biological sciences, plant sciences, microbiology or genetics) or equivalent qualifications/experience
• Experience in molecular biology: DNA & RNA extractions, PCR, cloning
• Experience in aseptic technique and general microbiology methods
• Organisational skills to keep samples, data files and laboratory notes in good order
• Good IT skills such as Microsoft Office, and the ability to learn to use new software packages associated with lab machines
• Basic data processing and analysis skills: dataset compilation in Microsoft Excel; basic statistical analyses; DNA sequence analysis (e.g. using Geneious)
• Accuracy and attention to detail in following experimental protocols
• A collaborative approach and excellent communication skills to work across different groups within a department
• Self-motivation and initiative, to plan your own day-to-day work and manage laboratory matters such as consumables stock levels and equipment repairs 

Desirable requirements

Ideally you will also have:

• Experience isolating and culturing fungi and/or plant pathogens
• Experience working with plants in glasshouse or growth chambers
• Background knowledge of plant pathogens and crop protection
• Basic bioinformatic analysis skills e.g. BLAST, gene function analyses and effector identification software
• Experience with high throughput sequencing (e.g. Illumina, Nanopore) or molecular diagnostics (e.g. qPCR, RT-qPCR)
• Experience in fungal, microbial, viral or plant transformations
• Flexibility to work alone or as part of a small team
• Commitment to your own personal development and willingness to learn new skills
• A driving licence or access to independent means of transport. 

See full Job Description on our website for more details. 

ABOUT US 

NIAB is a leading crop science organisation in the UK, renowned for its extensive research capabilities in plant genetics, plant pathology, agronomy, farming systems, and data science. We maintain strong research partnerships with industry, government, and academia, ensuring that our work has a significant impact on agricultural practices.  With our main sites located in Cambridge and East Malling, Kent, along with regional offices across the country, NIAB employs nearly 400 dedicated professionals committed to advancing crop science. We provide cutting-edge scientific research, technical services, and practical advice aimed at improving the yield, efficiency, and resilience of crop production across arable, forage, and horticulture sectors. 

Our state-of-the-art facilities include advanced molecular biology laboratories and specialised plant growth facilities, featuring extensive glasshouses and containment units for genetically modified plant trials. Additionally, we manage over 250 hectares of commercial cropping and field trials, positioning NIAB as a key player in the field of crop protection and sustainable agriculture. 

Further information 

Cambridge Park Farm site https://www.niab.com/about/locations/park-farm 

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. 

TO APPLY 

Click the ‘Apply’ button or visit our website https://www.niab.com/careers  for further details and to apply directly. Any questions? Email jobs@niab.com or call Human Resources on 01223 342282. 

Please note that following changes to Immigration Law in April 2024, this role does not qualify for a Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.  Candidates with independently held immigration permission would be considered.

NIAB World class experience, skills and resources