Research Assistant – Wheat Transformation and Gene Editing Facility (WTGE)
John Innes Centre
Norwich, England, United Kingdom
The John Innes Centre invites applications for the position of Research Assistant within the Wheat Transformation and Gene Editing Facility (WTGE), a cutting-edge platform supporting advanced research in plant genetics, crop improvement, and gene editing technologies. The role contributes to the Institute’s mission of delivering sustainable agricultural solutions through world-leading plant and microbial science.
The successful candidate will work within a highly collaborative research environment supporting wheat transformation and gene editing workflows, including CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation systems. The role involves supporting end-to-end laboratory processes, from construct assembly to plant transformation, tissue culture, and molecular characterisation of transgenic lines. The postholder will also contribute to plant growth monitoring in controlled environment rooms and glasshouses, ensuring compliance with experimental protocols and quality standards.
The position forms part of the Wheat Transformation and Gene Editing Facility, which underpins multiple research programmes focused on improving crop resilience, productivity, and disease resistance. The role supports both internal research groups and external collaborators, contributing to ongoing innovation in gene editing technologies and precision breeding approaches. The postholder will also assist in refining experimental protocols and supporting engagement and dissemination activities where required.
Eligibility Criteria
• A BSc or equivalent qualification in Biological Sciences or a closely related discipline is essential
• Strong grounding in molecular biology and microbiological techniques is required
• Experience in standard laboratory practices relevant to plant science research is expected
• Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate scientific records and follow experimental protocols is essential
• Experience with plant transformation, tissue culture, or glasshouse work is desirable
• Experience in Agrobacterium handling, construct assembly, or crop genetic engineering is advantageous
• Candidates must demonstrate the ability to meet the operational and safety requirements of laboratory and controlled environment work
Required Expertise/Skills
• Strong practical skills in molecular biology techniques such as DNA manipulation, cloning, and construct preparation
• Knowledge of Agrobacterium-mediated transformation and plant tissue culture systems
• Ability to support wheat transformation workflows including explant preparation and plant regeneration
• Experience working in controlled environment rooms or glasshouse facilities is beneficial
• Strong attention to detail and adherence to laboratory protocols and quality assurance standards
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams
• Good organisational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise workload
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with internal and external research partners
• Commitment to scientific integrity, safety compliance, and continuous improvement
Salary Details
Salary is set at £28,890 to £35,670 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience. The role is offered on a fixed-term contract until 30 April 2028, full-time at 37 hours per week.
Application Deadline
27 April 2026