Research Scientist

NES Group Ltd; England; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural technology company is seeking a Research Scientist in Bracknell, UK. This contract role involves laboratory-based research on bioavailability of agrochemicals. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Biological Science and at least two years of relevant experience. Strong scientific writing and communication skills are essential, along with a team-oriented mindset. Comprehensive training and a collaborative work environment are offered.

Benefits

Comprehensive training

Well-equipped laboratories

Diverse workforce

Qualifications

• Minimum two years' laboratory experience.
• Degree (MSc preferred) in a relevant Biological Science.
• Experience in plant science or insect science is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide scientific support on bioavailability of agrochemicals.
• Design and analyze experiments on AIs interaction.
• Interpret data and prepare presentations and reports.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Effective scientific writing

Verbal communication

Team mentality

Education

BSc or MSc in Biological Science

Tools

LC-MS

Job description

About this opportunity

NES Fircroft is currently recruiting a Research Scientist on behalf of 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 2 year duration, Mon‑Fri 36hrs per week.

Role purpose and key requirements

The successful candidate will work on a variety of projects, from early‑stage research to product development and market support. They will use a combination of lab and glasshouse assays as well as analytical techniques to produce high‑quality data on the bioavailability of active ingredients and products.

We are looking for someone with at least two years’ experience of working in a laboratory, a degree, MSc (preferred) or PhD in a Biological Science subject and preferably some experience of working in plant science or insect science.

Additionally, the candidate must show good personal management skills, such as following science plans, delivering results in line with the project timelines, and complying with company HSE standards. The candidate must have a team mentality, effective interpersonal and communications skills, and be able to work with colleagues from various disciplines.

The role will involve

• Proactively providing the scientific and technical support to inform about the bioavailability of novel agrochemicals by performing studies in whole plants / insects (in vivo) or plant parts and insect tissues (ex vivo).
• Responsible for independently designing, planning, executing and analysing experiments to further our understanding of how AIs interact with in plant or insect matrices.
• Interpreting and analysing data and presenting conclusions in detailed reports and presentations.
• Performing operational priorities that are agreed with the Science Leader.
• Implementing HSE actions to ensure the operations are within defined standards.

Additional tasks

• Reviewing and advancing established protocols or methodology that improves capability and efficiency.
• Transferring knowledge and building new capabilities to supplement existing toolkits.

What we are looking for

Essential

• BSc or MSc (preferred) with experience in subject areas related to Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry and/or Soil Science.
• At least two years of relevant laboratory‑based experience, either in a relevant professional or academic setting.
• Effective scientific writing (fluent in English), verbal communication, and organizational skills.

Desirable

• Some professional experience working in Pharmacology, Agronomy, Crop Protection, Biochemistry or Analytical Chemistry.
• Experience in handling large data sets – data storage, reporting analysis, and visualization tools.
• Experience in the study of ADME of active ingredients.
• Experience of analysing small molecules using LC‑MS.
• Experience working with soil, seeds, plants or insects.

What we offer

Comprehensive training in all techniques including the use of LC‑MS based analysis and 14C imaging. A great working environment at our International Research Centre with well‑equipped laboratories, open culture and a diverse workforce. The opportunity to work with and learn from highly qualified, experienced employees and gain scientific and technical excellence.