Glasshouse Research Assistant (Permanent)

Dyson Farming Limited; Carrington; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary performance-relatedBonus

Pension scheme with 6% employer conitr

Life assurance

Free on-site parking

Cycle2work scheme

Job summary

Dyson Farming is seeking a Glasshouse Research Assistant to support our glasshouse research programme during peak harvest periods. You will help collect, process and record trial data across a range of glasshouse experiments, contributing to high-quality crop assessments.

This hands-on role involves routine trial operations, data entry, berry measurements (including Brix and dimensions), and occasional weekend work to ensure trials are delivered accurately and on time, while maintaining

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in plant sciences, agriculture, biological sciences or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Comfortable in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Support data collection across all glasshouse research activities.
• Record yield, quality and assessment data accurately.
• Grade fruits across glasshouse trials; some harvesting may be required.
• Collect berry measurements including Brix readings and dimensions.
• Support pest and disease monitoring and crop assessments.
• Assist with trial logistics and housekeeping in trial areas.
• Help with trial design and basic data analysis.
• Support harvest operations during peak periods, including weekends.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Manual handling

Self-motivated

Driving licence

Education

Undergraduate degree in plant sciences, agriculture, biological sciences or related

Job description

Dyson Farming is a family-owned business, with a vision to benefit future generations through a commitment to commercially viable and environmentally sustainable food production at scale. We strive to be industry leaders in efficient, high-technology agriculture, employing highly skilled, pioneering people and supported by research and development in an ever-closer partnership with our sister company, Dyson. We see the future of agriculture as an exciting opportunity to improve the nation's food security, health, and economic growth.

Dyson Farming is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.

The role

Dyson Farming Research is looking for a Glasshouse Research Assistant to support the delivery of our glasshouse research programme during peak harvest periods. Working alongside the research team, you will help collect, process and record trial data across a diverse range of glasshouse experiments.

This is a hands-on role that supports critical harvesting and crop assessment activities, ensuring research trials are delivered accurately, consistently and on time. The role will involve supporting both routine trial operations and peak harvest periods, including occasional weekend working when required.

Key Responsibilities

• Support in data collection across all research activities in the glasshouse
• Contribute to the efficient delivery of the Glasshouse Research programme by completing assessment activities accurately and promptly
• Record yield, quality and assessment data accurately and consistently
• Grade fruits across glasshouse research trials, some harvesting may be required
• Collect berry measurements, including key quality metrics such as Brix readings and berry dimensions
• Support pest and disease monitoring and crop assessments
• Support in data collection using the hybrid vertical growing system
• Prepare, label, process and transport samples for further analysis and benchmarking
• Assist with planting, crop maintenance, trial establishment and housekeeping activities
• Maintain high standards of organisation, cleanliness and biosecurity within trial areas
• Support researchers with trial logistics, stock management and equipment preparation
• Support with daily equipment checks
• Assist with trial design where necessary and carry out basic data analysis to support the research projects
• Support harvest operations during peak periods, including weekends where required

Requirements

Skills & experience

• Undergraduate degree in plant sciences, agriculture, biological sciences or a related disciplined; or equivalent experience in these fields
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately
• Comfortable working in a dynamic and fast paced environment
• Reliable, self-motivated and able to work effectively as part of a team
• Able to undertake the manual requirements of the role, including repetitive tasks, lifting, bending and carrying
• Full driving licence preferred but not essential

What We're Looking For

• Enthusiastic about agriculture and practical research
• Positive, practical approach and willingness to carry out the hands-on requirements of the role
• Strong work ethic with a commitment to accuracy and consistency
• Adaptable and able to remain focused during busy harvest periods
• Works effectively in a practical, collaborative team environment

Benefits

Financial

• Discretionary performance-related bonus
• Pension scheme with 6% employer contribution
• Life assurance

Equipment & working conditions

• PPE and workwear provided
• On-site welfare facilities, including rest areas and changing rooms
• 24 days annual leave each year (plus bank holidays)

Team & culture

• Annual summer and winter all-staff events
• Opportunities for learning and development

Practical extras

• Discounts on Dyson Farming products
• Dyson product discounts
• Retail discounts
• Free on-site parking
• Cycle2work scheme

Health and wellbeing

• Enhanced family leave
• Employee assistance programme
• Free flu jab
• Mental health ambassadors across all locations
• Free eye tests and glasses discounts
• Discounted gym membership