Job Description

Join us as a Molecular Scientist and make an invaluable contribution to our Food Safety & Biosecurity!As a molecular Scientist you will be based within the Nematology Team where you will contribute to the routine delivery of samples using morphological and molecular methods. This will include identifying nematodes using microscopy and established molecular methods, in addition to facilitating the development, validation and transfer of novel molecular methods for routine diagnostic use.What youll be doing:

• Morphological identification of plant-parasitic nematodes from plant and soil samples.
• Develop taxonomic and biological knowledge of plant-parasitic nematodes.
• Assist with free-living and cyst nematode extractions where required.
• Take a lead role in the implementation of plant pest diagnostics, using molecular diagnostic tools.
• Transfer methods from research projects to routine frontline diagnostics following a process that ensures new assays are validated and fit for purpose. Produce protocols for the new methods.
• Undertake validation of new methods and verification of existing methods (validation to ISO 17025 where appropriate).
• Provide molecular support to the nematological diagnostic work.
• Contribute to the drafting of scientific papers and research reports.

What were looking for:

• A BSc or equivalent in a related science subject or appropriate relevant experience
• Experience working in a laboratory, with the ability to meticulously follow protocols and standard operating procedures and maintain high quality standards. Experience of working to accredited standards such as ISO 17025 and ISO 9001 is desirable.
• We are particularly interested in candidates who have morphological experience, in addition to molecular diagnostic experience including a range of nucleic acid extraction and detection techniques and are able to work with a range of different sample types (plants/soils/invertebrates).
• Excellent customer service skills and be able to prioritise work in a busy environment.
• Excellent team working skills, the ability to solve problems and quickly recognise and flag issues when they arise. Good IT skills, particularly in the use of databases and Microsoft applications including Outlook, are essential.
• A good botanical knowledge and some nematological knowledge is desirable but not essential.

Whats in it for you?

• 23 days holiday (rising to 27) with the opportunity to buy extra leave.
• Flexible working hours, on-site gym, restaurant, and free parking
• The opportunity to take a paid day out of the office, volunteering for our charity partners or a cause of your choice
• Company matched pension, life assurance, a cycle2work scheme, 15 weeks fully paid maternity, adoption and shared parental leave, paternity pay of two weeksxe2x80xa6and plenty more.
• Voluntary benefits designed to suit your lifestyle from discounts on retail and socialising, to health & wellbeing, travel and technology
• Access to our Employee Network Groups, which represent every strand of diversity and allow colleagues to connect and learn from each other on an open, inclusive platform
• Fera operates a LTIP ( Long Term Incentive Plan) under which all employees are awarded points towards shares in the Employee Benefits Trust on an annual basis. The Employee Benefits Trust holds shares on behalf of our employee, at the point of an equity event the shares will realise a cash value.

What we hope youll do next:Choose xe2x80x98Apply now to fill out our short application, so that we can find out more about you. If you have any questions youd like to ask before applying, you can contactWere an equal opportunity employer, which means we recruit and develop people based on their merit and passion. Were committed to providing an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment process and working environment for everyone. If you need the job description or application form in an alternative format or if youd like to discuss other changes or support you might need going forward, please email at and well get back to you.At Fera, were making the world a better, healthier and safer place. Were a joint venture partnership between Bridgepoint and Defra and were working proactively to protect the world we live in and the food we eat. Our teams are investigating plant and bee health, crop protection and sustainable agriculture. Join us and discover better as you deliver world-class science for the future.

Fera Science