Senior Research Scientist - Microscopy

NES Fircroft; England; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000

Job description

Senior Research Scientist in Microscopy

About this opportunity:

The Microscopy team within the Bioscience function in Crop Protection conducts research on a variety of projects related to structural studies or phenotyping related to changes from our active ingredients AI. The team is working in all stages of the product development, but with higher importance in the role to support our existing product lines. The aim of these studies is to understand critical performance characteristics.

Role purpose:

We have a role for a Senior Research Scientist/Technical Specialist who must have experience (at least two years) of working in a microscopy laboratory, a degree (MSc preferred) in a Biological Science or Chemistry subject with experience in Microscopy. Besides the technical skills, the candidate must show good personal management skills, such as following science plans, delivering results in line with the project timelines, and complying with HSE principles and standards. The candidate must work closely with the existing members with effective interpersonal and communications skills and be able to work with colleagues from various disciplines but principally biology, biosciences and chemistry.

The role will involve:

Core tasks

1. Proactively providing the scientific and technical support to inform about the request/task in Microscopy by performing studies using Fluorescence or electron microscopy.
2. Be proficient with the techniques used in the Microscopy facilities (fluorescence and electron based).
3. Performing operational priorities that are agreed with the Science Leader.
4. Interpreting and analysing data and presenting conclusions in detailed reports and presentations.
5. Implementing HSE actions to ensure the operations are within defined standards.

Additional tasks

1. Support, advance, and review sample preparation methodologies in Microscopy, including: Fixation protocols, Infiltration protocols, sectioning protocols and staining protocols.
2. Run established protocols with technical expert support to improve capacity and efficiency.
3. Transfer knowledge where possible and build new capabilities or workflow to supplement existing toolkits (within the lab).

What we are looking for:

Essential:

1. BSc or MSc (preferred) or PhD with experience in subject areas related to Microscopy and bioimaging.
2. At least 1-2 years of laboratory-based experience, either in a relevant professional or academic setting.
3. Effective scientific writing (fluent in English), verbal communication, and organizational skills.

Desirable:

1. Demonstrated experience of imaging of plant or insect materials using optical and electron microscopy.
2. Experience in a wide range of techniques i.e. Fluorescence and Electron microscopes.
3. Experience handling and preparing samples for fluorescence and electron microscopy.
4. Proficiency in a range of image analysis tools - data storage, reporting and image analysis or colouring tools.
5. Reporting analysis and discussing results and interpretation.
6. Experience in running automated workflows using HPF or AFS.

What we offer:

1. Comprehensive training in all techniques, including the use of CLSM, and EM instruments, support image analysis tools.
2. A position which contributes to valuable and impactful work in a stimulating and international environment.
3. A great working environment at our International Research Centre with well-equipped laboratories, open culture and a diverse workforce.
4. The opportunity to work with and learn from highly qualified, experienced employees and gain scientific and technical excellence.

Apply today for further details!