Are you a PhD student at a UK university? Join our team for a hands-on internship in next-generation crop research. We host PIPS placements, part of the UKRI BBSRC-funded Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) programme, giving eligible students the chance to gain real-world experience, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to sustainable agriculture. Please note: PIPS internships are only open to PhD students enrolled at UK universities.
POTATO TEAM
Focus: GM-free genome editing in potato
Project Overview: Work with our genome engineering specialists to develop and optimise gene-editing tools for crop species. You’ll help test methodologies to create targeted mutations in potato.
Ideal Candidate:
- Interest in molecular biology and biotechnology
- Curiosity about tissue culture regeneration and sterile technique
- Previous wet lab experience recommended
What You’ll Gain: Hands-on training in GM-free genome editing under the UK Precision Breeding Act, plus skills in tissue culture, single-cell isolation, experimental design, and genomic analysis.
Work Environment: Fully lab-based (Rothamsted Research).
TOMATO TEAM
Focus: CRISPR and tissue culture in tomato
Project Overview: Support the development of gene-edited tomato varieties for international markets using our protoplast editing and regeneration pipeline.
Ideal Candidate:
- Interest in CRISPR/gene editing or tissue culture
- Strong attention to detail and record-keeping
- Prior sterile technique experience
What You’ll Gain: Direct experience applying CRISPR in plant biotechnology and exposure to commercial variety development.
Work Environment: Fully lab-based (Rothamsted Research).
TOOLS & TRAITS TEAM
Focus: Novel genome editing tools and trait engineering
Project Overview: Join a dynamic team developing new editing technologies and exploring engineering of plant traits. Ideal for molecular or synthetic biology students.
Ideal Candidate:
- Background in molecular/synthetic biology
- Experience with DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing, or cloning (Gibson/Golden Gate)
- Enthusiastic, creative, and organised
What You’ll Gain: Experience in genome editing design, cloning, record management, and scientific communication. Work at Rothamsted’s vibrant research campus and contribute to projects with real climate impact.
Work Environment: Fully lab-based.
DATA TEAM
Focus: AI models for plant genetics
Project Overview: Support our data science team developing artificial intelligence models that predict genetic outcomes to accelerate crop improvement.
Ideal Candidate:
- Comfortable with coding (Python preferred)
- Analytical mindset and collaborative spirit
- Bioinformatics or statistics experience a plus
What You’ll Gain: Exposure to AI-driven plant science, experience handling real -omics datasets, and insight into biotech data workflows.
Work Environment: Fully remote, with optional monthly on-site visits for presentations and team lunches.
Interested?
Join Phytoform Labs for an innovative, hands-on PIPS placement at the intersection of biology, technology, and sustainability.
To learn more, complete the form below or contact us directly at apply@phytoformlabs.com
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