Dyson Farming Research - Student Placement (Fixed Term)

Location: Nocton Farm (Lincolnshire) and Carrington Glasshouse, with occasional travel to Oxfordshire Farm
Department: Dyson Farming Research Centre

Hours: Full-time, including occasional weekend working during peak periods
Contract Type: Fixed-term Placement (July - Oct 2026)
Reporting to: Research Team / Research Manager

Role Summary

Dyson Farming is a family-owned business with a vision to benefit future generations through commercially viable and environmentally sustainable food production at scale. Through innovation, technology, and a commitment to carbon-neutral agriculture, we are helping shape the future of food production in the UK.

As part of the newly established Dyson Farming Research Centre, the Research Assistant will support a range of industry-led agricultural research projects across arable and horticultural cropping systems. Working alongside experienced researchers, you will contribute to the delivery of field and glasshouse trials, helping to generate practical solutions that improve crop productivity, resource efficiency, and environmental outcomes.

This placement offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in agricultural research, develop technical and analytical skills, and gain valuable insight into a progressive, technology-driven farming business.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of field and glasshouse-based research trials across a range of crop types, including strawberries, potatoes, and cereals.
• Assist with field-based data collection and environmental monitoring activities.
• Conduct crop assessments, plant sampling, and crop monitoring throughout the growing season.
• Prepare, process, and organise plant, soil, and water samples for laboratory analysis.
• Record, manage, and maintain accurate research data and trial observations.
• Support the establishment, maintenance, and harvesting of research trials.
• Work collaboratively with the Research Team to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of research activities.
• Adhere to health, safety, and biosecurity procedures across all research sites.
• Travel between Dyson Farming sites as required to support research operations.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Currently studying, or recently completed, a degree in Agriculture, Crop Science, Plant Science, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related discipline.
• Strong interest in agricultural research and sustainable food production.
• Ability to collect, record, and manage data accurately.
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications.
• Full UK driving licence or willingness to travel between sites.

Desirable

• Previous experience in agricultural, horticultural, research, laboratory, or field-based environments.
• Understanding of crop production systems and agronomic practices.
• Experience handling biological or environmental samples.
• Familiarity with research trial methodologies and data collection techniques.

Personal Attributes

• Enthusiastic, proactive, and willing to learn.
• Hands-on approach with a practical mindset.
• Strong team player with excellent communication skills.
• Able to work independently and take initiative when required.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities and seasonal workloads.
• Motivated by innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions and across different research environments.

What Dyson Farming Offers

• A unique opportunity to work within a pioneering agricultural business at the forefront of sustainable food production.
• Hands-on experience supporting innovative agricultural research projects.
• Exposure to a wide range of cropping systems, technologies, and research methodologies.
• Mentoring and support from experienced research professionals.
• Opportunities to develop technical, practical, and professional skills.
• Insight into a vertically integrated business focused on innovation, sustainability, and long-term impact.
• Experience working within the newly established Dyson Farming Research Centre, helping shape the future of agricultural research.

• Pro-rata holiday plus bank holidays;
• Free annual flu jab;
• Free eye test;
• Employee Assistant Programme;
• Organised social events;
• Free parking.