Plant & Soil Scientist

ZipRecruiter; Macclesfield; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative agri-biotech start-up is seeking a Plant & Soil Scientist to design and analyze experiments linking plant and soil performance to microbial function. The position offers for a collaborative, mission-driven team aimed at addressing global agricultural challenges, competitive salary, and the potential for transitioning to a permanent role.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Access to world-class facilities

Mission-driven team environment

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent research experience in a relevant field.
• Strong skills in data analysis and experimental design.
• Full UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Design, run, and analyse plant–soil experiments.
• Collect and interpret agronomic data from studies.
• Contribute to scientific publications and reports.

Skills

Experimental design

Statistical analysis

Data interpretation

Self-management

Creative problem-solving

Education

PhD in Plant Science, Agronomy, Soil Science

Job description

CroBio is an innovative agri-biotech start-up developing next- microbial technologies to help farmers grow more resilient, sustainable crops. Backed by leading international investors and partners, we are scaling rapidly with field trials across the UK, Europe, the Americas, and beyond.

The Role

• Design, run, and analyse plant–soil experiments to validate CroBio’s microbial technologies.
• Collect and interpret agronomic data from greenhouse and field studies.
• Work closely with microbiologists and molecular scientists to link plant and soil performance to microbial function.
• Contribute to scientific publications, reports, and presentations.
• Support field trial logistics with UK and international partners.
• Grow with the company as we scale from early-stage trials to global deployment.

About You

Essential

• PhD in Plant Science, Agronomy, Soil Science, or related field or equivalent research/industry experience.
• Evidence of independence, self-management, and a track record of delivering in complex research settings.
• Strong skills in experimental design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation.
• A full UK driving licence (essential).
• Willingness to embrace the challenges of a fast-paced start-up environment.

Desirable

• Experience in industry-focused or applied research (agriculture, ag-biotech, or related).
• Previous involvement in multi-disciplinary teams or external collaborations.
• Familiarity with field trials and farmer/distributor engagement.

Personal Qualities

• Perseverance and positivity blended with realism.
• Passionate and disciplined in pursuing solutions.
• Creative problem-solver, diplomatic communicator, and strong team player.
• A passion to contribute to solving pressing agricultural challenges and making a positive difference.

What We Offer

• A 6-month fixed-term contract with scope to transition into a permanent full-time role.
• Immediate start.
• The chance to be part of a pioneering start-up addressing global agricultural challenges.
• A collaborative, mission-driven team environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Access to world-class facilities at Alderley Park.

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter highlighting your track record and motivation for joining CroBio to [e-mail], with the subject line Plant & Soil Scientist Application.