We are looking for a motivated Junior Scientist to join our Cell Specialist Team and support the research and development of plant cell regeneration and tissue culture protocols at Phytoform. In this hands-on role, you will develop practical expertise in plant tissue culture and cell culture techniques across a range of plant species and varieties. Working alongside experienced scientists, you will strengthen your technical skills, refine your scientific thinking, and contribute to projects that drive innovation in plant biotechnology.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ AND COMPLY WITH THE APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS BELOW FOR YOUR APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED.
This position is ideal for an exceptional early-career scientist who is eager to deepen their expertise in plant tissue culture while making a meaningful contribution to impactful research and development projects.
Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team. As this is a laboratory-based position, applicants must be able to work on-site to support our research activities and ensure the smooth operation of our laboratory.
What you’ll do:
- Work closely with the Senior Cell Specialist to support the development, optimization, and implementation of plant tissue culture methods for the propagation and maintenance of mother plants.
- Assist in the development and optimization of plant cell isolation (protoplast) and regeneration protocols across a range of agronomically important crop species.
- Support both the R&D and product teams by carrying out protoplast isolation and regeneration using established protocols.
- Accurately record experimental data, maintain detailed laboratory records, and communicate findings to the wider team.
- 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
- Practical experience in protoplast isolation and regeneration
- Practical experience in plant tissue culture, including the propagation and maintenance of plants in vitro
- Experience preparing and optimising plant tissue culture media for plant growth and development.
- 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 for plant transformation, gene editing, or regeneration
- Knowledge of, or practical experience with, working with plant morphogens and their application in plant development or regeneration.
- Practical experience of molecular biology including; DNA and RNA extraction, cloning, and gene expression analysis
- Experience with high-throughput imaging and image analysis.
- Experience using automated liquid handling systems or laboratory robotics.
- Proficiency in using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- 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 - Cell Specialist” in the subject line.
%20(1).png)
.svg)
.png)
