OverviewRhizocore Technologies applies mycologicalsolutions for growing healthier and more resilient forests andwoodlands. Symbiotic fungi represent a crucial component of atree’s soil microbiome, yet many tree planting efforts fall shortof their targets due to unfavourable soil ecology, leading tohigher sapling mortality, slower growth, and an increaseddependence on chemical inputs.At Rhizocore, our aim is to supportwoodland regeneration through the use of native andregionally-sourced mycorrhizal fungi, enabling planted trees togrow healthier, be more resilient to environmental stressors, andsequester more carbon.Based at the Roslin Innovation Centre inEdinburgh, we work with organisations across the UK and beyond tobioprospect mycorrhizal fungi which we culture in our laboratoryfacility and screen them for their efficacy in improving treegrowth. A full job description is provided in Section A.We areseeking a Junior Laboratory Technician with a background inbiochemistry, microbiology, or relevant work experience in chemicalanalysis, or knowledge of materials science. The post holder musthave the Right to Work in the UK, have a full driving licence, andbe able to accommodate flexible working arrangements when workingaround field trips. A full candidate specification is provided inSection B.Equality of opportunity is factored into all ourrecruitment decisions, and we welcome applicants from a diversityof backgrounds and will guarantee to interview all disabledapplicants who meet the essential criteria for this post.We placestaff wellbeing at a premium, providing generous benefits includingannual leave entitlement, flexible working hours, opportunities forcontinuous learning and professional development, and a pensionscheme. If you are interested in this position, please follow theguidelines in Section C, ensure the checklist is completed, andsend all necessary documents to the provided email address. We lookforward to hearing from you!No agencies please.Section A: JobDescriptionThis is a unique opportunity to undertake cutting-edgework in the field of applied mycology. As part of our technicalteam, you will support various aspects of laboratory work,primarily centred on preparing culture media and substrates,maintaining solid and liquid fungal cultures, biochemical assays,production operations, and supporting ongoing horticulturalexperiments with mycorrhizal tree seedlings.This position will bebased at the world-renowned Roslin Innovation Centre in Edinburgh,but will call for seasonal fieldwork assistance mostly during theautumn months for sampling wild fungi across the UK, or in latewinter/early spring to conduct tree planting fieldtrials.Additional accountabilities include laboratory admin andhousekeeping, databasing, and ensuring the highest level oflaboratory practice and safety is followed in your work.Hours ofwork: Full timeContract type: 12 Month ContractContracted hours: 34per weekSalary: £21,000 per annum pro rataLocation: RoslinInnovation Centre, Edinburgh, ScotlandReports to (position):Laboratory ManagerClosing date: 13th January 2025Start date:February 2025AccountabilitiesPerform routine laboratory workinvolving media and substrate preparation, fungal culturepreparation and maintenance, biochemical assays, and horticulturalwork to support scientific experiments and production operations.Undertake seasonal assistance during fungal collection trips andtree planting field trials, involving travel and physicalactivity.Assist the technical team with administrative laboratorytasks, databasing, and task planning to a high standard.This postwill be supervised by the Laboratory Manager.Section B: CandidateSpecificationEssentialEducation to BSc or equivalent inbiochemistry and/or microbiology, OR relevant practical experiencein a similar line of workAbility to work in a productive team tomeet short task deadlinesExcellent organisation skills, timemanagement and accuracy in planning workFull drivinglicenceDesirablePrevious work experience in a laboratory orproduction/manufacturing environmentExperience operating laboratoryequipment such as laminar flow hoods and autoclavesDemonstrableexperience with aseptic technique and/or microbiologySubjectknowledge in mycology and/or horticultureSection C: ApplicationProcedureTo be considered for the position, applicants must providethe documents listed below. A checklist has been provided asfurther guidance for what to include:Document 1: Cover LetterPleaseprovide examples of your relevant skills, abilities, knowledge andexperience to support your application for this role. Please referto the essential criteria in Section B (up to 2,000 words).Document2: CVEducation and employment historyContact details for tworefereesOnce completed, please email your documents with thefollowing subject lineJOB APPLICATION - Junior LaboratoryTechnicianto the following email address: look forward to hearing from you!Best wishes,The Rhizocoreteam