Job Description

We are seeking a motivated Molecular Biologist or Plant Pathologist to join our team for a 10-month fixed-term position, supporting an ongoing collaborative project focused on genetically characterising and functionally validating disease resistance genes in potato. The project targets resistance to Globodera pallida and G. rostochiensis.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct molecular biology experiments to identify and characterise potato resistance genes Perform functional validation studies using Agrobacterium*-mediated gene transfection and evaluation of transgenic plants
Establish and run pathogen infection assays to test gene function in potato Maintain and propagate potato tissue cultures and hairy roots Analyse experimental data and contribute to project reports and publications Work collaboratively with academic and industrial partners

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

PhD or significant experience in Molecular Biology, Plant Pathology, Plant Biotechnology, or a related field Proven hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, cloning, PCR, qPCR) Experience with Agrobacterium*-mediated transformation or transfection
Familiarity with setting up and evaluating plant-pathogen assays, particularly in potato Practical experience in plant tissue culture Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team Good communication, record-keeping, and data analysis skills

Desirable Skills:

Knowledge of potato biology and resistance Experience in collaborative research environments

Benefits offered

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - A confidential service available to support employees and their families with work or personal problems. Providing access to professional counsellors, psychologists, and work-life consultants available to help and support individuals in tackling all types of problems. Annual Leave - Generous entitlement up to 40.5 days a year, with carry over possible and guaranteed time-off for Christmas. Pension - Employer Contribution of 15% in a Personal Pension Plan and employee contribution flexibility. Self-managed hours and Flexible Working - option to manage and spread your working time in line with organisational needs to create a healthy work life balance.

We will not consider the use of 3rd party recruitment agencies for the sourcing of candidates for this position.


The James Hutton Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.


The James Hutton Institute is a: Stonewall Diversity Champion; Athena SWAN Bronze Status Holder; Disability Confident Committed Employer and a Living Wage Employer.


The James Hutton Institute is Happy to Talk Flexible Working.