Scientific Assistant - Rice

We are looking for an enthusiastic, organized, and hardworking individual to join the Rice Biotechnology Team to support all stages of in vitro plant production. 

Job Purpose  

In this role you will be working in a dynamic team developing high-performing rice varieties using cutting-edge gene-editing technologies, with a particular focus on delivering robust and scalable in vitro plant production pipelines.

The successful candidate will contribute to tissue culture operations as well as supporting horticultural and assay development activities.  

This role will suit individuals with strong manual skills who are comfortable working in a repetitive environment where efficiency, precision, and attention to detail are essential. 

As Tropic provides full training, the role is open to candidates at all levels, from entry-level to more experienced applicants. However, prior experience with plant tissue culture would be advantageous. 

Initially, you will learn and perform our protocols under supervision, with the expectation that you will gradually take on greater responsibility and work more independently over time. 

Responsibilities  

• Perform plant tissue culture tasks from transformation to maintenance of in vitro plant material 

• Handle and maintain large numbers of sterile cultures 

• Screen tissue culture material using fluorescent microscopy
  

• Accurately label and record all processed samples on a daily basis 

• Collect experimental data and maintain LIMS records 

• Ensure compliance with SOPs and biosafety standards 

• Support potting of transformed plant material in the glasshouse when necessary 

• Assist in developing and improving tissue culture protocols  

• Support general lab operations, including media management and plant material collection  
  

Requirements  

• Ability to work well as part of a fast-paced SOP-driven production environment 

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in repetitive tasks  

• Excellent organizational skills and ability to adhere to deadlines 

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team  

• Positive and enthusiastic attitude 

• Clear written and verbal communication skills  

• Proactive and motivated, with a strong sense of ownershi
  

• Flexible and able to adapt to changing prioritie
  

• Collaborative, open to feedback, and keen to develop new skills 

• Actively looks to build proficiency in a broad range of techniques and to develop knowledge in relevant area(s) 

• Proficient in working with MS Office programs 

• Experience with plant tissue culture
  (desirable) 

• Familiarity with LIMS or laboratory data recording systems
  (desirable) 

• Experience working in regulated, biosafety or quality-controlled environments (desirable) 

About Us 

Tropic is one of the world’s leading agricultural gene-editing companies. Our team is dedicated to the development and commercialization of high-performing varieties of tropical crops to provide significant benefits to growers, processors, and consumers globally, tackling real-world problems around food security and sustainability. 

Our vision is to become a leading seed business with significant ownership of its products from the laboratory to the field, while maintaining constructive relationships with growers and consumers based on transparency and trust.  

Why Join Tropic? 

• Excellent learning and career development opportunities 

• Social events throughout the year 

• Competitive compensation and benefits including: Private Medical Insurance through Vitality, Medical Cash Plan, 25 days annual leave, Group Income Protection and Life Assurance  

Further Information  

• Job Location – Norwich UK   

• Time Requirement – Full Time   

• Contract – Permanent  

• Closing date – 13th July 2026