Scientist - Technology Development – 3 year fixed term contract

Tropic; Norwich; On-site; GBP 52,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private Medical Care

Medical Cash Plan

25 days annual leave

Life Assurance

Job summary

Tropic in Norwich is seeking a talented scientist to join the Technology Development team and advance crop biotechnology projects through rigorous experimental science, including protoplast-based assays, gene editing and plant regeneration.

You will lead experimental design, generate high-quality data, troubleshoot challenges and communicate results to stakeholders, shaping project direction with scientific insight and collaboration.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant life science discipline.
• Hands-on laboratory expertise in crop biotechnology, with a focus on protoplasts and regeneration.
• Strong data analysis and ability to deliver high-quality outputs.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver laboratory experiments independently with scientific rigour and creativity.
• Plan experiments, manage risk, troubleshoot effectively and interpret results to inform project decisions.
• Identify and apply new methods and technologies that support innovation and business goals.
• Maintain accurate, traceable records and contribute high-quality data and documentation.
• Communicate progress, risks and recommendations clearly to colleagues and stakeholders.
• Collaborate across teams and support a culture of shared learning and continuous improvement.
• Champion safe laboratory practice, quality standards and scientific excellence.

Skills

Molecular biology

Gene editing

Tissue culture

Assay development

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology or related

Tools

Protoplast-based assays

Rice transformation (desirable)

Job description

We are looking for a talented and experienced scientist to join our Technology Development team and help deliver innovative crop biotechnology projects through high-quality experimental science.

Our Technology Development team works across molecular biology, gene editing, plant transformation and assay development to support Tropic’s crop improvement programmes and accelerate research into real-world impact.

Job Purpose

In this role, you will contribute to the delivery of key R&D programmes through technology optimisation, in particular the development of protoplast cell assays, including gene editing, RNAi implementation and plant regeneration.

You will drive and lead experimental design and execution, generate high-quality data, communicate results effectively and help shape project direction through scientific insight, innovation and effective collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver laboratory experiments independently with scientific rigour and creativity.
• Plan experiments, manage risk, troubleshoot effectively and interpret results to inform project decisions.
• Identify and apply new methods and technologies that support innovation and business goals.
• Maintain accurate, traceable records and contribute high-quality data and documentation.
• Communicate progress, risks and recommendations clearly to colleagues and stakeholders.
• Collaborate across teams and support a culture of shared learning and continuous improvement.
• Champion safe laboratory practice, quality standards and scientific excellence.
• Show initiative to contribute to wider team performance and the training of others.

Requirements

You will bring proven scientific expertise, hands-on laboratory excellence and the drive to apply your skills in crop biotechnology and deliver real-world impact from your work.

Technical

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Plant Biotechnology or a related discipline.
• Strong technical expertise in experimental design, in particular in protoplast-based gene editing and regeneration.
• Troubleshooting, data analysis and delivery of high-quality scientific outputs.
• Ability to design, interpret and optimise complex laboratory experiments and workflows.
• Expertise in areas relevant to plant biotechnology including advanced molecular biology, gene editing, tissue culture, assay development and bioinformatics.
• Experience with rice transformation is desirable, but not essential

Transferable

• Proven ability to take ownership of complex research activities and deliver against objectives.
• Able to manage competing priorities, solve problems effectively and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Scientifically curious, proactive and innovative, with strong critical thinking skills.
• Clear and confident communicator, able to share progress and recommendations with different audiences.
• Highly organised, with strong attention to detail in record-keeping, data handling and reporting.
• Collaborative and supportive, with a positive approach to team-working and continuous improvement.

About Us

Tropic is a pioneering tropical seeds company dedicated to the development of healthier, more robust, high-performing varieties of tropical crops. The company’s current core crop portfolio focuses on banana and rice, which together provide a source of livelihood to billions of people worldwide. Tropic utilises its proprietary GEiGS® platform and other cutting-edge gene editing technologies to develop improved crops with increased disease resistance, higher yields, and environmentally sustainable traits. By harnessing the power of advanced genetic engineering, Tropic is committed to addressing global agricultural challenges and providing innovative solutions that benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment.

Why Join Tropic?

• Diverse workforce operating in a dynamic working environment
• Excellent learning and career development opportunities
• Social events throughout the year
• Competitive compensation and benefits including: Private Medical Care, Medical Cash Plan, 25 days annual leave and Life Assurance

Further Information

• Job Location – Norwich UK
• Time Requirement – Full Time
• Contract – 3 year Fixed Term
• Closing date – 23/11/2026