Biological Science jobs in Cambridge

Job Title: Tissue Culture Technician
Location: Park Farm Campus, Villa Road, Histon Cambridge, CB24 9AT
Salary: £28,251 per annum
Contract: 2-year fixed term
Working hours: 37 hours per week (Monday to Friday)
Closing date: 6 August 2026

​About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Tissue Culture Technician to join our Crop Transformation team on a 2-year fixed-term contract. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge plant biotechnology research, supporting the delivery of genetically modified and gene-edited crops across a range of research projects.
Working within a collaborative scientific environment, you will undertake plant tissue culture and transformation activities primarily using Agrobacterium-mediated techniques, whilst supporting a range of laboratory, molecular biology and plant growth activities. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Carry out plant tissue culture and crop transformation experiments
• Prepare growth media, stock solutions and undertake routine laboratory support activities, including autoclaving
• Sample plant tissues for DNA extraction and microscopy analysis
• Support molecular biology activities, including DNA extraction and PCR, where required
• Assist with plant growth, propagation, harvesting and seed processing activities
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records
• Contribute to visitor engagement activities
• Work effectively with colleagues to ensure project objectives and deadlines are achieved

You will work across laboratory, growth room, glasshouse and office environments at our Park Farm campus. The role involves regular use of laboratory equipment including microscopes and visual displays, exposure to plant material, pollen and dust or compost/soil particles, and occasional manual handling of items up to 25kg.

​Essential Requirements​

• BSc degree in Plant Science or Biotechnology, or equivalent relevant experience
• Practical experience of plant tissue culture and/or plant transformation techniques
• Good aseptic laboratory technique
• Experience of growing or propagating plants
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Competence in Microsoft Office 365 applications including Outlook, Word, Excel and Powerpoint
• High levels of accuracy, consistency and attention to detail
• Good manual dexterity and colour perception​

Desirable Requirements​

• MSc in a relevant scientific disciipline
• Experience of crop transformation methods across different species
• Knowledge of microscopy techniques
• Awareness of molecular techniques used in transgenic plant analysis
• Good numerical and data-handling skills

​Location

The role is based at Niab’s Park Farm Campus, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9AT — just 4 miles from Cambridge city centre. The site offers free on site parking and is well connected by cycle routes and regular bus services to the city centre and railway station. It is also close to Junction 32 of the A14, with easy access to the M11, A10 and A11.

Informal enquiries are welcome, please contact Ruth Bates (ruth.bates@niab.com)

Click link below for the full Job Description.

ABOUT US

Niab is the UK’s leading crop science organisation, with research capabilities in plant genetics, agronomy, farming systems and data science, the largest national field trials capability, and strong research links with industry, Government and academia. With headquarters in Cambridge, and regional offices across the country, employing over 350 people across the UK, NIAB advances the role of plant genetic resources through research services and training. Niab’s position at the interface of academic research and commercial breeding offers opportunities for strong collaborations across the plant sciences sector.
Niab actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. As a Disability Confident Employer, we have a positive approach to employing people living with a disability.

About the Application Process

Apply by clicking the Apply button above, please read the Job Description, which provide full details about the role, application process and what to expect.

Important Information

• This is a UK-based role. You will be required to demonstrate your right to work in the UK as part of the recruitment process.
• Where the role meets the relevant criteria, we are able to consider Skilled Worker visa sponsorship in line with Home Office requirements. Any offer of sponsorship will be subject to the role meeting the skill and salary thresholds and to the individual meeting the Home Office eligibility criteria.
• We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and do not discriminate on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under the Equality Act 2010.
• Niab reserves the right to withdraw or close this vacancy at any time

Pay: From £28,251.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free flu jabs
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person