Plant Pathologist

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

Closing date: 12 March 2025 with interviews being held within two weeks after the closing date

Salary: from £28,000 per annum, depending on experience with paid overtime being available.  

Contract: Fixed term for 3 years

Working hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Exciting Opportunity: Advance Plant Science and Protect British Crops!

Are you passionate about plant health and cutting-edge research? Join Niab’s world-class Plant Pathology Team and play a key role in protecting Britain's crops from emerging diseases. This is your chance to work on pioneering research, develop new disease-resistant crops, and make a real impact in the agricultural sector.

About the Role

Based at Niab Park Farm in Histon, Cambridge, you’ll be at the forefront of plant pathology research, tackling major threats to crop health. You’ll apply advanced molecular techniques and field trials to assess and mitigate plant diseases, working across laboratory, growth rooms, field trials, and data analysis. This dynamic role offers variety, innovation, and impact, ensuring no two days are the same.

What you will be involved with:

• Lead Cutting-Edge Research – Contribute to breakthrough projects in plant pathology and disease resistance.
• Molecular & Genetic Analysis – Extract and prepare high-quality genomic DNA, conduct PCR/qPCR, genotyping, and help with next-generation sequencing.
• Pathology Trials & Data Analysis – Design and execute trials in laboratory, growth room, and field environments, assessing disease resistance in crops.
• Equipment & Lab Management – Maintain and oversee laboratory equipment, ensuring seamless research operations.

About Niab

Niab is a pioneering crop science organisation at the forefront of innovation in plant genetics, pathology, agronomy, farming systems, and data science. With headquarters in Cambridge and regional offices across the UK, we are dedicated to transforming crop production in the arable, forage, and horticulture sectors.

Join our team of nearly 400 experts and play a vital role in groundbreaking scientific research that shapes the future of plant science. As an independent research organisation eligible for UKRI funding, we collaborate closely with industry, government, and academia, offering unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and impactful research.

Why join us?

• Work with Experts – Join a dynamic and passionate team of over 20 plant pathologists, PhD students, and visiting researchers.
• World-Class Facilities – Access newly build state-of-the-art laboratories, walk-in growth rooms, and modern glasshouses.
• Field Research – Gain hands-on experience at multiple trial sites in East Anglia.
• Exciting & Varied Role – Work across laboratory, field, and office settings, adapting to seasonal and project needs.
• Make a Real Impact – Contribute to groundbreaking research, shaping the future of crop protection and plant pathology.

What you will need to succeed:

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented researcher with:

• A degree in plant pathology, plant science, genetics, or molecular biology (MSc or PhD preferred but not essential).
• Experience in DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, and genotyping, with additional expertise in plant pathogens and microbiology.
• Hands-on experience working with cereal and legume crops in lab, glasshouse, or field settings.
• Strong IT and data analysis skills, alongside problem-solving abilities and a collaborative mindset.
• A full UK driving licence (as some trial sites are inaccessible by public transport).

Location

You will be based at Niab Park Farm in Histon, Cambridge—a cutting-edge research facility just 4 miles from the city centre. The site offers:

• Advanced research spaces – molecular biology labs, glasshouses, growth rooms, and GM containment units.
• Excellent connectivity – Easy access via A14, M11, A10, A11, plus free on-site parking and cycling routes.
• Public transport links – Regular buses connecting to Cambridge city centre and railway station.
• Travel opportunities – Occasional trips to field trial sites in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk.

Excited to shape the future of crop science? Apply today and be part of a team making a real-world impact!

Informal Enquiries:

Tom Wood (Deputy Head of Plant Pathology) – tom.wood@niab.com 
Kostya Kanyuka (Head of Plant Pathology) – kostya.kanyuka@niab.com 

Benefits

• 25 days holiday + public holidays + 3 extra days off at Christmas.
• Flexible working options.
• Generous sick pay.
• Attractive pension scheme.
• Income protection & life assurance.
• Employee discount scheme & cycle to work.
• Free on-site parking.

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 above for further details and to apply directly. Any questions? Email jobs@niab.com or call Human Resources on 01223 342282.  Apply soon as we may shortlist prior to the closing date. 

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. 

World class experience, skills and resources.