RESEARCH TECHNICIAN

Faculty of Life Sciences Full-Time / Fixed term

Grade 6 (£31,236-£36,636)

Make a Difference at the University of Dundee

We are seeking an exceptional Research Technician to join the to join the Crop Epigenetics group led by Dr Claudia Martinho. Based within the Department of Plant Sciences at the James Hutton Institute, the successful applicant will join a vibrant and highly collaborative research environment with access to state-of-the-art molecular biology, genomics and plant science facilities. We are looking for a talented and enthusiastic scientist to help uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying transcriptional stress memory in crop plants. The project investigates how epigenetic regulation influences gene expression and stress memory, with the long-term goal of improving crop resilience to climate change.

This is a fixed-term appointment for 36 months with the possibility of an extension subject to the project status and the availability of funding. Placement on the grade 6 salary scale.

About the Faculty of Life Sciences

The Faculty of Life Sciences is internationally recognised for world-leading research in biological and biomedical sciences. Our work explores the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning health and disease, with impact across human, animal and environmental systems.

We are home to a collaborative community of over 600 academic and professional services staff and more than 100 doctoral researchers, supported by high-quality facilities and a culture that promotes innovation, integrity and inclusion.

Our research-led teaching supports undergraduate and postgraduate students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills for future careers. We also have a strong track record of translating research into real-world impact, including successful spin-out companies.

The University of Dundee has been a signatory of the Technician Commitment since 2021. In 2025, the University received an Impact Award following its first self-assessment, recognising the progress made in delivering Action Plan One. Our second three-year Action Plan focuses on mapping technical roles and skills, developing career pathways, promoting professional registration, and strengthening knowledge exchange, demonstrating our continued commitment to recognising, supporting, and investing in our technical community.

Learn more about the Faculty of Life Sciences [Faculty Website]

About the Role

As Research Technician, you will play a key role in supporting the Crop Epigenetics Group by providing technical expertise in plant growth and maintenance, plant tissue culture, basic molecular biology including cloning and genotyping and laboratory management, contributing to the successful delivery of an ambitious research programme investigating epigenetic stress memory in crop plants.

You will work closely with the Principal Investigator and a Postdoctoral Researcher to support the successful delivery of a prestigious Leverhulme Research Leadership Award, contributing to plant growth and maintenance, tissue culture, molecular biology, laboratory management and the day-to-day running of the Crop Epigenetics Group.

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting research activities through plant growth and maintenance, tissue culture, molecular cloning, genotyping and other molecular biology techniques.
• Generating, maintaining and phenotyping tomato and strawberry mutant and transgenic lines, and assisting with sample collection for downstream analyses.
• Supporting genomics and epigenomics experiments through nucleic acid extraction, sample preparation and quality control for sequencing.
• Contributing to the day-to-day management of the laboratory, including stock management, equipment maintenance, health and safety, and promoting sustainable laboratory practices.
• Working collaboratively with the Principal Investigator, Postdoctoral Researcher and students to support the successful delivery of the research programme, including training new group members where appropriate.

Who We're Looking For

Essential

• An undergraduate or Master's degree in Biological Sciences, Plant Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology or a closely related discipline.
• Practical experience in plant molecular biology techniques, including DNA and RNA extraction, molecular cloning and genotyping.
• Experience with plant growth, maintenance in controlled environment and plant tissue culture.
• Experience with Agrobacterium-mediated plant transformation and the generation of transgenic plants.
• Excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
• A proactive approach to laboratory organisation and management, with a commitment to good laboratory practice, health and safety, and sustainable laboratory practices.

Desirable

• Experience working with tomato or strawberry or other crop species, including propagation, seed collection and cross hybridization experiments.

Why Join the University of Dundee

At the University of Dundee, we are driven by a clear purpose: to transform lives through education, research and innovation.

We are internationally recognised for the real-world impact of our work, particularly in areas such as life sciences, health and engineering. Our collaborative and inclusive culture brings together talented people from across disciplines to tackle global challenges and deliver meaningful change.

Located in the vibrant city of Dundee, our campus offers a supportive and forward-looking environment where colleagues are empowered to develop, contribute and succeed.

Find out more about working at the University of Dundee: Working at the University of Dundee

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an environment where colleagues feel valued, supported and empowered to succeed.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Requirements

Any offer of appointment will be conditional upon the individual having, or being able to obtain, the right to work in the UK. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review UK Government immigration guidance to assess their eligibility to work in the UK, including consideration of visa options that may be available to them, prior to applying.

Please note that this role is unlikely to meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.