Research Scientist – CRISPR R&D for Phytoform Labs Ltd

The Company

At Phytoform Labs Ltd we believe in sustainable agriculture and nutrition for all. We see a lack of innovation in the agricultural space around the crops themselves, so we are building a multidisciplinary team to help rectify the situation. We have exciting growth plans over the next year and we are looking for a talented Research Scientist to lead our plant-focused CRISPR technology development. We are based at the world leading plant science institute Rothamsted Research just outside of London, United Kingdom.

The Role

If you are looking for a new challenge and like working with a multidisciplinary team then this job is for you. We are looking for a motivated team member to work on Phytoform Labs core CRISPR-genome editing technology. You will be developing homology directed repair (HDR-CRISPR) approaches for multiple plant improvement applications. You will also have responsibility for all our CRISPR technology developments. You will work 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.

You will:

• Design and validate in vitro & in vivo HDR CRISPR experiments & test in model plants and commercial crops
• Develop molecular strategies on improving HDR CRISPR efficiencies
• Work on improving multiple aspects of CRISPR technology for the use in plants
• Work with footprint-free CRISPR methods including transient plasmid & RNP transfection.
• Work with plant tissue culture including single cell protoplasts

Requirements

• PhD in Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering or a related subject
• Experience with CRISPR genome editing in plants (Arabidopsis & non-model plants)
• Strong record of molecular biology-based problem solving & application driven research
• Self-driven with effective time management and multitasking capability
• Excellent written and oral communication & ability to work well in a team
• Excellent documentation, IT & numerical skills
• Ability to work in a results-driven environment

You get extra points if you: