Lead Molecular Plant Pathology Technician

NIAB; Histon; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days holiday + public holidays

Generous pension scheme

Income protection & life assurance

Employee discount scheme

Comprehensive training program

Job summary

NIAB is seeking a Senior Molecular Plant Pathology Technician to support pathology and molecular biology activities across research and commercial projects. The role involves culture, DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, genotyping, sequencing library prep, and data analysis.

You will work closely with project managers, researchers, and external partners to deliver reproducible results and ensure robust quality control and compliance with safety standards.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent experience in plant pathology, microbiology, molecular biology, genetics or related discipline.
• Hands-on experience with plant pathology and molecular assays in crop-associated organisms.
• Experience with aseptic culture and DNA-based workflows.

Responsibilities

• Cultivate crop plants in glasshouse and lab settings.
• Isolate and maintain plant-associated microbes using aseptic methods.
• Perform disease challenge assays and phenotype evaluations.
• Prepare DNA and run PCR/qPCR and molecular diagnostics.
• Prepare sequencing libraries and coordinate submissions.
• Record and preliminarily analyse pathology and molecular data.
• Support SOPs, risk assessments, and project reporting.
• Provide day-to-day technical guidance within the team.

Skills

Molecular biology

DNA extraction

PCR/qPCR

Genotyping

Sequencing library prep

Aseptic technique

Data handling & QC

Project coordination

Communication

Education

Degree or equivalent in plant pathology / microbiology / related

Tools

DNA quantification/quality checks

Sequencing platforms knowledge

Job description

NIAB is seeking a Senior Molecular Plant Pathology Technician to support pathology and molecular biology activities across research and commercial projects. The role involves culture, DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, genotyping, sequencing library prep, and data analysis.

You will work closely with project managers, researchers, and external partners to deliver reproducible results and ensure robust quality control and compliance with safety standards.