Jobs & Career
Research Assistant (Maternity Cover) — John Innes Centre | £28,890–£35,670 | Apply by 16 Nov 2025
Institution: John Innes Centre (JIC)
Position Type: Full-time, 10-month fixed-term (Maternity Cover)
Hours: 37 per week
Salary Range: £28,890 – £35,670 (Grade SC7)
Application Deadline: 16 November 2025
Project Title: JIC Pisum Collection Maintenance and Seed Distribution
🌍 About the Role
The John Innes Centre (JIC) is inviting applications for a Research Assistant (Maternity Cover) to support its internationally recognized research in plant genetics and crop science. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the Pisum (pea) germplasm collection—a vital global resource for plant science and agricultural innovation.
The selected candidate will play an integral role in maintaining the Pisum collection, regenerating germplasm, monitoring seed quality, and managing the SeedStor database, ensuring the sustainable conservation of genetic resources that support global food security.
🔬 Key Responsibilities
- Manage Pisum germplasm conservation — oversee new material depositions, seed regeneration, and seed duplication in line with the Crop Trust strategy.
- Conduct phenotyping — evaluate grain nutritional qualities using advanced X-ray and Near-Infrared spectrometry techniques.
- Support research excellence — refine experimental protocols, assist with manuscripts and proposals, and contribute to ongoing research publications.
- Collaborate globally — engage with international researchers, breeders, and collaborators working on Pisum genetics.
- Administrative support — maintain laboratory stock, train visitors, and ensure compliance with scientific integrity and safety standards.
🎓 Required Qualifications
Essential:
- MSc (or equivalent) in Crop Science, Plant Genetics, or related field
- Proven experience in conservation, gene banking, or seed production
- Knowledge of plant genetics and use of molecular markers
- Demonstrated scientific writing and oral presentation skills
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork abilities
Desirable:
- PhD in Biology or related discipline
- Experience in Pisum genetics, agronomy, or pathology
- Familiarity with seed longevity testing and grain phenotyping
- Supervisory experience (students or lab visitors)
💼 Personal Attributes
Ideal candidates will:
- Show exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills
- Be proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently
- Demonstrate commitment to diversity, equality, and integrity
- Be open to occasional national or international travel for research collaborations
🧬 About the John Innes Centre (JIC)
The John Innes Centre is an independent, international leader in plant and microbial genetics, dedicated to advancing agricultural and environmental sustainability through cutting-edge research. JIC integrates expertise across cell biology, chemistry, molecular biology, and genetics to deliver innovations that benefit society worldwide.
Why Join JIC?
- Athena SWAN Gold Award for gender equality in science
- Stonewall Diversity Champion member
- Disability Confident Employer—guaranteed interviews for qualified disabled applicants
- Supportive international community with visa assistance available
For details about the institute, visit www.jic.ac.uk.
📨 How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the closing date on 16 November 2025.
For application queries or visa-related questions, contact:
📧 nbi.recruitment@nbi.ac.uk
📞 +44 (0)1603 450888
🔗 Quick Summary
| Position | Research Assistant (Maternity Cover) |
|---|---|
| Institution | John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK |
| Project | Pisum Collection Maintenance & Seed Distribution |
| Salary | £28,890 – £35,670 per annum |
| Duration | 10 months (full-time) |
| Closing Date | 16 November 2025 |
| Visa Sponsorship | Available for qualified international applicants |
🌟 Final Thoughts
This role at the John Innes Centre is an excellent opportunity for scientists passionate about plant genetics, seed conservation, and global agricultural innovation. With strong institutional support, international recognition, and a commitment to diversity, this position provides both career growth and a meaningful scientific impact.
If you are driven to make a difference in the world of crop research, apply today and become part of a pioneering scientific community advancing sustainable agriculture for the future.
