Plant Genome Engineer

The Company

Phytoform is a UK-based company working on improving crop varieties with the help of new breeding technologies and artificial intelligence. We are a multidisciplinary team enhancing crop species to align with a sustainable future. We are at a pivotal time in the agri-tech industry, where the projects developed today in this sector will define the world of tomorrow. Currently in the scale up stage, Phytoform has exciting growth plans for the coming years.

The Role

We are looking for a motivated team member to work on developing unique large DNA payload delivery methods at Phytoform Labs. You’ll be developing novel methods for genome engineering, particularly chromosome delivery and engineering and its applications in higher plants. You will be part of the implementation team working with other Genome Engineers. Additionally you will work closely with our cell specialist team to facilitate plant cell manipulation. 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.

What You’ll Do

• Play a key role in an innovative R&D project with high conceptual freedom.
• Be responsible for development of novel methods for high molecular weight DNA and chromosome delivery into plant cells.
• Work alongside a team of experts to develop new plant varieties.
• Contribute to cutting-edge advancements in plant genome engineering. 

Essential Requirements

• Education:PhD in Plant Sciences
• Experience with protoplast transfections and protoplast fusions
• Clear evidence of experience in plant cytogenetics and plant cell biology
• Demonstrated success with advanced problem solving in cell and molecular biology
• Demonstrated capability to follow and develop protocols and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Track record of application driven research.
• Goal focused and with good time management and excellent record keeping.
• Ability to work in a results-driven, deadline-oriented team.
• Share our passion for sustainability and vision of a future where genetic engineering plays a key role in improving the resilience of global food systems.

Beneficial Experience

Experience with:

• Manipulation and delivery of large DNA molecules.
• Whole genome and chromosome manipulation.
• In situ chromosome imaging and identification techniques and/or  in situ hybridisation (FISH, GISH or SunTag-dCas9) techniques.



What we offer

• Competitive salary 
• Share of the value you create through Employee Stock Option Plan
• Private Medical Insurance
• Great working environment in a multidisciplinary team
• A flexible working arrangement: early or late working with core hours of 10am-4pm
• Possibility of working from home when compiling and analysing data
• Access to a gym & tennis courts
• Access to the cycle to work scheme

If you’re looking for a new challenge and enjoy working as part of a small, multidisciplinary team where new ideas are welcomed, then we would love to meet you!

This job is part of an Advanced Research + Innovation Agency - funded project, subject to contract negotiations.

Job Type:Fixed term

Pay:Competitive