Research Associate

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated plant scientist to join the Seed and Stress Biology team based at Wakehurst to work on a new project funded by the Forestry Commission. The “Optimising plasma treatments for enhanced germination of dormant tree seeds” project aims to enable improved propagation of trees from seeds and will investigate the effects of innovative plasma-based methods for breaking seed dormancy and improving germination and storage of UK native tree species.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated plant scientist to join the Seed and Stress Biology team based at Wakehurst to work on a new project funded by the Forestry Commission. The “Optimising plasma treatments for enhanced germination of dormant tree seeds” project aims to enable improved propagation of trees from seeds and will investigate the effects of innovative plasma-based methods for breaking seed dormancy and improving germination and storage of UK native tree species.

Research Associate

More details

Our ideal candidate will have a PhD in plant science with expertise in seed biology, particularly in undertaking laboratory-based studies of seed germination and dormancy. We are looking for a candidate with the ability to work collaboratively across the project team and with sufficient knowledge and experience to be able to design and conduct experimental research, and to analyse data and interpret results. Good communication skills and experience of presenting data at conferences and in reports or research papers is an essential requirement.

Please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc.

Interviews are due to take place on 24 March.

This role is based at Wakehurst with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.

We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.

Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.

The salary for this position is £39,243 per annum [Band D]

Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking “Apply for this job”.

We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

No agencies please.