Research Scientist - Plant Gene Editing (12-month fixed-term contract)

We are looking for a skilled Researcher, who is passionate about genome-editing technologies and their real-world applications, to join our team and assist with all aspects of synthetic biology, construct development and gene editing design for experimental approaches and plant product development.

Job Purpose

The SynBio team leads the molecular design and construction of gene editing tools that drive Tropic’s crop improvement efforts. By collaborating with Technology Development, Bioinformatics, and Plant Biotechnology teams, SynBio transforms experimental concepts into reliable genetic constructs to create the next generation of biotechnological products.

The team ensures these constructs meet high technical and quality standards, with robust traceability and reproducibility for experimental and regulatory purposes.

As Scientist in the SynBio Team, you will represent a cloning expert within Tropic, advancing technical cloning processes, improving our constructs and ultimately delivering next-generation gene editing vectors for the wider organization. You will also support continued development of gene editing and synthetic biology capabilities, with the potential for significant professional development and impact within Tropic.

This position is ideal for candidates who are completing their PhD and seeking their first opportunity in the Agritech sector, while continuing to engage in hands-on laboratory work.

You will receive training from leading experts in synthetic biology and participate in a dynamic and rapidly evolving field.

Responsibilities

• Perform key cloning tasks such as gene editing strategy design, vector assembly and QC
• Consult on experimental and project design for SynBio project work packages
• Communicate and manage requests to the SynBio team from internal stakeholders
• Implement of novel CRISPR-based technologies to facilitate improved genome editing approaches.
• Foster strong QC and assurance practices, including traceable laboratory records and databases.

Educational background

PhD in a relevant field (Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology) or similar directly related experience.

Core competencies

• Strong attention to detail
• Excellent team player
• Excellent organization and time management
• Strong ownership of work, demonstrating accountability for delivering high-quality results and meeting project timelines
• Flexible and able to handle changes in a fast-paced environment

We are looking for expertise and transferable skills in a range of the following areas. You do not need to be an expert in all the below areas to apply:

• Direct practical experience in general molecular biology techniques
• Expertise with diverse cloning technologies and applications
• Broad experience with genome editing
• Broad experience in Plant Biology
• Scientific thinking, data-driven decision-making
• Hands-on experience on bacteria genome engineering

About Us

Tropic is one of the world’s leading agricultural gene-editing companies. Our team is dedicated to the development and commercialization of high-performing varieties of tropical crops to provide significant benefits to growers, processors and consumers globally, tackling real-world problems around food security and sustainability.

Our vision is to become a leading seed business with significant ownership of its products from the laboratory to the field, while maintaining constructive relationships with growers and consumers based on transparency and trust.

Why Join Tropic?

• Diverse workforce operating in a dynamic working environment.
• Excellent learning and career development opportunities.
• Social events throughout the year.
• Medical Healthcare, Medical Cash Plan, 25 days annual leave, Life Assurance.

Further Information

• Time Requirement – Full time
• Contract – Fixed term - 1 year

If you are looking to work in a dynamic company, striving towards a real-world impact, then consider joining our team and apply here!

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