Entomology Research Assistant – DToL & DNA Barcoding

National History Museum; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Holiday allowance (27.5 days + 8 bank)

Pension scheme (defined contribution)

Season ticket loan

Life insurance

Free museum admissions

Staff discounts

Training opportunities

CSSC membership

Sports & Social Association

Job summary

National History Museum is seeking an Entomological Research Assistant to plan and deliver insect collecting, identify specimens to species level, and prepare tissue samples for DNA barcoding and genome sequencing. You will curate the collected material, coordinate volunteers, and represent the project at events with colleagues and partners.

The role is full-time and fixed-term until 30 September 2028, with 100% on-site work and opportunities to engage with amateur natural history societies.

Qualifications

• Significant experience collecting and identifying UK invertebrates, particularly insects, to species level.
• Skilled in handling and dissecting specimens and databasing of specimen data.
• Ability to plan fieldwork independently and balance priorities against targets.
• Proven ability to explain methods to non-specialists and engage with societies and partner institutions.
• Hold a current driving licence with experience of long-distance driving; willing to work in remote locations and evenings/weekends.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver collecting for assigned target taxa, mainly terrestrial and freshwater insects, working with Museum colleagues and partners at Kew.
• Identify specimens to species level and prepare tissue samples for DNA barcoding and whole genome sequencing.
• Curate and database the sampled material; coordinate volunteers and students; represent the project at society events and workshops.

Skills

Fieldwork

Species identification

Specimen handling

DNA barcoding

Education

BSc in biological science

Tools

None

Job description

National History Museum is seeking an Entomological Research Assistant to plan and deliver insect collecting, identify specimens to species level, and prepare tissue samples for DNA barcoding and genome sequencing. You will curate the collected material, coordinate volunteers, and represent the project at events with colleagues and partners.

The role is full-time and fixed-term until 30 September 2028, with 100% on-site work and opportunities to engage with amateur natural history societies.