We are looking for a motivated team member to work on Phytoform Labs core CRISPR-genome editing technology. You’ll be developing methods for homology directed repair (CRISPR-HDR) approaches for applications in higher plants. You will be part of the Phytoform R&D team and will be interacting closely with our implementation team to make sure your R&D efforts are efficiently deployed in our crop breeding programs. If you have previously been part of an academic or industry team but now would like to work in a fast-paced start-up environment and develop a project from the ground up then you would be a great fit. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ AND COMPLY WITH THE APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS BELOW FOR YOUR APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and improve CRISPR-mediated HDR methods to diversify edits in plants.
- Keep current with state-of-the-art precision editing in the literature and use this to build practical solutions for higher plant HDR improvement
- Work with RNPs and plasmids from different crops and cell types
- Utilise and improve NGS and fluorescence-based methods for assessing genome editing efficiency
- Perform a range of molecular tasks such as DNA/RNA isolation and transient transfection.
- Keep a well-organised record of all data and results electronically.
- Present and discuss your strategies and advancements to your manager and team.
Essential Requirements
- PhD or MSc + 4 years work experience in a relevant field such as Genomics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or similar
- Experience with iterative optimisation of genome editing tools (e.g. HDR, prime or base editing, recombinases, etc).
- Strong cloning skills and experience.
- Advanced problem solving within molecular biology with demonstrated success.
- Demonstrated capability to follow and develop protocols and Standard Operating Procedures.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Track record of application driven research.
- Goal focused and with good time management and excellent record keeping.
- Ability to work in a results-driven, deadline-oriented team.
- Share our passion for sustainability and vision of a future where genetic engineering plays a key role in improving the resilience of global food systems.
Beneficial Experience
- Experience with CRISPR genome editing in plants and crop species.
- Experience with running and/or developing bioinformatic pipelines for NGS analysis.
- Experience working with plant protoplasts.
- Practical experience with high throughput methods, such as FACS, high throughput imaging and multiplex next-generation sequencing methods.
What we offer
- Competitive salary.
- Share of the value you create through the Employee Stock Option Plan.
- Private medical insurance.
- Great working environment in a multidisciplinary team.
- A flexible working arrangement: early or late working with core hours of 10am-4pm.
- Possibility of working from home when compiling and analysing data.
- Access to a gym & tennis courts.
- Cycle to work scheme.
Job Type: Fixed term
Location: Harpenden, London, United Kingdom
Contract: Full-time, 3 years to 31st May 2028 (renewable based on project milestones and funding)
Visa status: Visa sponsorship can be considered for this position
Start Date: As soon as possible
Application instructions
To apply, please submit a CV highlighting relevant experience and a cover letter (max 1 page) addressing your fit for the role and motivation to join the project in a single PDF file to apply@phytoformlabs.com stating “Senior Scientist – Plant CRISPR R&D” in the title.
Alternatively, apply through the Phytoform careers page https://www.phytoformlabs.com/careers.
We really value attention to detail and creativity. To show you’ve carefully read this advert and understand our focus, please weave the word ‘strawberry’ naturally into one sentence of your cover letter—ideally where you discuss relevant experience or skills.
This job is part of an Advanced Research + Innovation Agency - funded project, subject to contract negotiations
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