Research Associate

NES Group Ltd; Jealott's Hill; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in Agricultural Technology is seeking a Research Associate based at a premier International Research Centre in Jealott's Hill, UK. This role involves day-to-day production and maintenance of plant and seed materials, executing experimental work, and maintaining glasshouse conditions. Candidates should possess HND level Horticulture and relevant experience. Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills are essential. The position is contract-based for one year, Monday to Friday, 36 hours a week.

Qualifications

• Good general knowledge of plant biology, especially in seed production and horticultural techniques.

Responsibilities

• Carry out day‑to‑day production and maintenance of plant/seed materials.
• Work independently and as part of a team carrying out experimental work.
• Maintain plants under glasshouse conditions.
• Liaise with Technical Support Team to ensure high customer satisfaction.
• Contribute to safety performance by maintaining a clean and safe working environment.

Skills

Use of Microsoft office programs

Good analytical skills

Organisational skills

People skills

Detailed oriented

Agility in learning new tasks

Self‑motivation

Time-management skills

Education

HND level Horticulture

2+ years' experience in Horticulture or Seed supply

Job description

NES Fircroft is currently recruiting a Research Associate on behalf of our client, a global name in the Agricultural Technology industry. The role will be based at a world leading International Research Centre at Jealott's Hill, Bracknell. This is a contract position for an initial 1 year duration. Mon‑Fri 36hrs per week.

Duties

• Carry out day‑to‑day production and maintenance of plant/seed materials to a standard that meets customers' requirements. Highlight problems promptly.
• Work independently and as part of a team while carrying out experimental work using established and novel screening methods.
• Maintain plants under glasshouse conditions for the duration of the test.
• Liaise with other staff in the Technical Support Team to ensure a high level of customer support and satisfaction is being maintained.
• Develop technical knowledge and skills through experience of a wide range of production techniques.
• Identify areas for improvements in efficiency and contribute to problem solving in consultation with other team members and supervisor.
• Accurately keep records and databases current.
• Has a continuous improvement mindset and actively contribute to further improving the screening methods and processes.
• Contribute to safety performance by maintaining a clean and safe personal working environment. Comply with all safety procedures and HSE regulations.
• Ensure compliance by self with DEFRA, CBD, QMS and HSE regulations on containment and use of genetically modified organisms and licensed plant material in glasshouses, growth rooms and labs.
• Be accountable for work being done with precision, accuracy and efficiency.
• Good work ethic and works towards consistency in performing role.
• May be responsible for some test planning.

Education

• HND level Horticulture and/or 2+ years' experience working in Horticulture or Seed supply.
• General knowledge of plant biology; ideally also with knowledge of seed production and horticultural techniques.

Required Skills

• Use of Microsoft office programs.
• Good analytical, organisational, and people skills.
• Be detailed oriented and a good communicator.
• Agility in learning new tasks, self‑starter and team player.
• Good self‑motivation, self‑managing and time‑management skill sets.