We are looking for a motivated Junior Scientist to join our Tomato Gene Editing Team and support the production of precision bred tomato varieties at Phytoform. In this hands-on role, you will utilise practical expertise in plant tissue culture and molecular biology. Working alongside experienced scientists, you will strengthen your technical skills, refine your scientific thinking, and contribute to projects that drive innovation in plant biotechnology. This position is ideal for an exceptional early career scientist who is eager to deepen their expertise in plant tissue culture or molecular biology while making a meaningful contribution to impactful research and development projects. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ AND COMPLY WITH THE APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS BELOW FOR YOUR APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED.
What you’ll do:
- Work closely with the Lead Tomato Genome Engineer to support the production of precision bred tomato varieties via tissue culture and molecular biology techniques.
- Learn complex tomato tissue culture including media recipe optimisation
- Support precision breeding pipeline optimisation and implement quality control to ensure high standards
- Professional development to design and execute trait development programs
- Molecular biology work including cloning, gene editing and molecular quality control
- Assist in miscellaneous tasks when necessary, such as greenhouse work
- Accurately record experimental data and maintain detailed laboratory records
- Analyse experimental data statistically and communicate findings to the wider team with clear visualisations
- Work collaboratively in a fast-paced laboratory environment, following laboratory best practices and maintaining high standards of quality and attention to detail.
Role Requirements
- Essential:
- MSc in Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Plant Physiology, or a related life sciences discipline, or equivalent relevant laboratory experience
- Experience in preparing solid and liquid media.
- Experience working in sterile laboratory environments and following good laboratory practices.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage time effectively and prioritise competing tasks.
- A hands-on approach, with excellent observational skills, patience, and attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Strong documentation, IT, and numerical skills, with experience maintaining accurate laboratory records.
- A proactive, self-motivated attitude and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, results-driven environment.
- Share our passion for sustainability and vision of a future where genetic engineering plays a key role in improving the resilience of global food systems.
- You'll stand out if you have:
- Experience in plant regeneration, specifically using tissue culture or protoplasts.
- Experience in sterile techniques without the use of antibiotics.
- Practical experience of molecular biology including; DNA extractions, PCR, restriction enzymes, molecular markers, sanger sequencing.
- Experience with CRISPR-Cas systems.
- Love plants as much as we do and have a green thumb.
- What we offer
- Competitive salary.
- Share of the value you create through the Employee Stock Option Plan.
- Private medical insurance.
- Great working environment in a multidisciplinary team.
- A flexible working arrangement: early or late working hours with core hours of 10am-4pm.
- Possibility of working from home when compiling and analyzing data.
- Access to a gym & tennis court.
- Cycle to work scheme.
If you’re looking for a new challenge and enjoy working as part of a small, multidisciplinary team where new ideas are welcomed, then we would love to meet you! And if your experience does not align perfectly with every qualification listed, but you are excited by this role project and believe you could contribute strongly, we still encourage you to apply.
Your application should consist of a single PDF containing your CV and a cover letter. In your cover letter, please highlight any relevant experience you would bring to this role and why you’d like to join the team.
Location: Harpenden, Greater London commuter area, United Kingdom
Contract: Full-time
Visa: Please note that this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Start Date: As soon as possible
Please apply on the website or send your application to apply@phytoformlabs.com with “Junior Scientist - Tomato Gene Editing” in the subject line.
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