Research Scientist

NES Fircroft is currently recruiting a Research Scientist on behalf of our client, a Global name in the Agricultural Technology industry. The role will be based at a world leading International Research Centre at Jealott’s Hill, Bracknell. This is a contract position for an initial 2 year duration. Mon-Fri 36hrs per week.

About this opportunity: 
Our Client is looking for a Research Scientist who has proven experience in a research setting to join the Bioperformance group. The Bioperformance group within the Bioscience function in Crop Protection conducts research on the ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Elimination) behaviour of active ingredients (AIs) within target and non-target species to understand critical performance characteristics such as selectivity, resistance and translation to and in the field. 

Role purpose and key requirements:  
The successful candidate will work on a variety of projects, from early-stage research to product development and market support. They will use a combination of lab and glasshouse assays as well as analytical techniques, to produce high quality data on the bioavailability of active ingredients and products. 

We are looking for someone with at least two years’ experience of working in a laboratory, a degree, MSc (preferred) or PhD, in a Biological Science subject and preferably some experience of working in plant science or insect science.   

Additionally, the candidate must show good personal management skills, such as following science plans, delivering results in line with the project timelines, and complying with company HSE standards. The candidate must have a team mentality, effective interpersonal and communications skills, and be able to work with colleagues from various disciplines. 
 
The role will involve: 
 Core tasks 

Proactively providing the scientific and technical support to inform about the bioavailability of novel agrochemicals by performing studies in whole plants / insects (in vivo) or plant parts and insect tissues (ex vivo).  

Responsible for independently designing, planning, executing and analysing experiments to further our understanding of how AIs interact with in plant or insect matrixes.

Interpreting and analysing data and presenting conclusions in detailed reports and presentations. 

Performing operational priorities that are agreed with the Science Leader. 

Implementing HSE actions to ensure the operations are within defined standards. 

 Additional tasks 

Reviewing and advancing established protocols or methodology that improves capability and efficiency. 

Transferring knowledge and building new capabilities to supplement existing toolkits. 

What are we looking for: 
 Essential:  

BSc or MSc (preferred) with experience in subject areas related to Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry and/or Soil Science.

At least two years of relevant laboratory-based experience, either in a relevant professional or academic setting.

Effective scientific writing (fluent in English), verbal communication, and organizational skills. 

Desirable:  

Some professional experience working in Pharmacology, Agronomy, Crop Protection, Biochemistry or Analytical Chemistry.

Experience in handling large data sets – data storage, reporting analysis, and visualization tools. 

Experience in the study of ADME of active ingredients. 

Experience of analysing small molecules using LC-MS.

Experience working with soil, seeds, plants or insects.

What we offer: 

Comprehensive training in all techniques including the use of LCMS based analysis and 14C imaging. 

A great working environment at our International Research Centre with well-equipped laboratories, open culture and a diverse workforce. 

The opportunity to work with and learn from highly qualified, experienced employees and gain scientific and technical excellence. 

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients