Main Purpose of JobWe are seeking a motivated individual to provide technical support to the Plant Pathology group within the department of Cell & Molecular Sciences located at the Invergowrie Campus. The post-holder will work across a range of projects aimed at understanding the detection, epidemiology and control of plant diseases focusing mainly on filamentous fungi and barley pathology. Responsibilities will include the preparation of environmental samples for metabarcoding and Illumina sequencing, undertaking pathogen genotyping and processing fungal, bacterial, and crop samples for Oxford Nanopore sequencing. As part of our wider plant pathology group, the role will involve laboratory, glasshouse and field work across a variety of pathosystems, providing valuable input and support. This post requires full-time in-person attendance on site and occasional off-site working at other locations for sampling purposes is a possibility.This post is fixed term until February 2027.Main Duties of Postholder
Preparation of environmental samples for metabarcoding and Illumina sequencing
Pathogen genotyping
Processing of fungal, bacterial and crop samples
Plant propagation
Data collection, collation and analysis
Laboratory, field and glasshouse experiments
Person SpecificationEducation/Experience/SkillsEssential
Biological Sciences degree
Research experience in a lab environment
Proven ability with microbiological techniques, such as culturing microorganisms under aseptic conditions.
Experience of molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR and sequencing.
Self-motivation and time management
Good data handling and record keeping
Evidence of working effectively within a team
Desirable
Experience in field and glasshouse work and plant handling
Plant pathology skills
Report writing
Basic data analysis/statistics
Other Skills
The ability to work unsupervised
The ability to follow protocols and standard operating procedures
Additional notes/RequirementsCurrent driving licenseWhat We Offer
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - A confidential service available to support employees and their families with work or personal problems. Providing access to professional counsellors, psychologists, and work-life consultants available to help and support individuals in tackling all types of problems.
Annual Leave – Generous entitlement up to 40.5 days a year, with carry over possible and guaranteed time-off for Christmas.
Pension - Employer Contribution of 15% in a Personal Pension Plan and employee contribution flexibility.
Self-managed hours and Flexible Working – option to manage and spread your working time in line with organisational needs to create a healthy work life balance
We will not consider the use of 3rd party recruitment agencies for the sourcing of candidates for this position.The James Hutton Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.The James Hutton Institute is a: Stonewall Diversity Champion; Athena SWAN Bronze Status Holder; Disability Confident Committed Employer and a Living Wage Employer.The James Hutton Institute is Happy to Talk Flexible Working.
