An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Assistant to join the Banfield Group at the John Innes Centre.

About the Banfield Group

Research in the Banfield Laboratory explores the molecular interactions between plant pathogens and their hosts with the aim of understanding how pathogens cause disease and how the plant immune system functions to resist infection. By understanding the biochemical and structural basis of these processes we target protein engineering with the ultimate aim of reducing yield losses in agriculture from plant diseases and lowering the impact on the environment of current control measures.

The research team comprises Postdoctoral Researchers, PhD students and frequent short-term visitors including students and national/international scientists. As part of this team, the Research Assistant will work with the Group Leader to manage efficient and effective operation of the Laboratory, and to contribute directly to research projects (including opportunities to lead their own research projects within the interests of the Laboratory).

The role

The role will involve helping to manage the research performed in the Banfield Lab, working closely with the Group Leader. The successful candidate will undertake a wide range of diverse tasks including: planning, performing, trouble-shooting and analysing experiments of their own and others; working closely with other Lab members to provide training and advice including on effective use of resources; ensuring best-practice in research and recording/sample management processes are followed. They will also undertake responsibility for key administrative tasks, such as maintenance of laboratory supplies and stocks, and managing some laboratory equipment (including coordinating use of shared equipment and resources).

The successful candidate will liaise with internal and external collaborators to advance the interests of the research group, providing the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of scientists. The post holder will also have opportunities to develop their own technical, transferable and leadership skills through general and bespoke training.

The ideal candidate

The John Innes Centre is a world-class research institute and is looking to appoint an exceptional candidate who ideally has some experience of Laboratory management, a keen enthusiasm for scientific research, and will be motivated by their own success but also celebrate their role in the success of others. The successful candidate will have, or soon expect to receive, a PhD in the broad areas of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related discipline. The ideal candidate will have the ability to carry out independent work but also be a strong team player and have excellent communication skills.

Additional information

Interviews will be held late March/early April.

For further information and details of how to apply can be found here or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450814 or nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk quoting reference 1006050.

This role does not meet the full salary requirements set by UKVI to allow for visa sponsorship.  However, some individuals may still be eligible for visa sponsorship depending on their personal circumstances.  If you require visa sponsorship, please click here to find out if you qualify before applying. Please note, the occupation code for this role is [2112 or 2119], which is [not] on the immigration salary list.

We are an equal opportunities employer, actively supporting inclusivity and diversity.  As a Disability Confident organisation, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy. We are proud to hold a prestigious Gold Athena SWAN award in recognition of our inclusive culture, commitment and good practices towards advancing of gender equality. We offer an exciting, stimulating, diverse research environment and actively promote a family friendly workplace. The Institute is also a member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme.

The John Innes Centre is a registered charity (No. 223852) grant-aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.