Graduate Botanical Assistant - Root Specimen Preparation

GTSSE

  • Basildon, Essex
  • £15.00-20.00 per hour
  • Contract
  • Full-time
  • 12 days ago
Location: Essex Basildon remote/hybrid by arrangementType: Freelance / Short-Term Contract / Part-TimeDuration: Initially 6-12 months, with potential extension to full time employmentStart Date: Flexible (from September 2025)About the RoleWe're looking for a detail-focused and practically skilled individual to assist in the preparation, analysis, and identification of tree root specimens as part of an applied botanical research project.You'll be working alongside two passionate company directors and assistant researchers, exploring the anatomical structure of tree roots under microscopy and developing a system for accurate species-level identification based on physical characteristics.What You'll Be Doing
  • Preparing and cutting root samples for microscopic analysis
  • Identifying species using root anatomy and morphological traits
  • Creating labelled reference samples and visual records
  • Advising on sample preservation, handling, and field collection
  • Optionally supporting development of educational or documentation materials
  • Guiding the project through the next levels as it progresses
We're Looking For
  • A recent graduate in botany, plant sciences, horticulture, arboriculture, or a related field
  • Basic experience with microscopy and a keen interest in plant root anatomy
  • Comfort handling natural specimens and learning hands-on dissection techniques
  • Good organisation and a methodical approach to work
  • Bonus: Experience with botanical drawing, soil-plant relationships, or lab notebooks
What's on Offer
  • Flexible, part-time working hours (remote or local)
  • Supportive mentoring on botanical anatomy, microscopy, and specimen preparation
  • Ideal experience for someone considering an MSc, PhD, or applied botany career
  • All necessary equipment and materials provided or reimbursed
Please apply via the 'Apply' button above (e: )£15 to £20 per hour or £120-160/day, depending on experience

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