PLEASE NOTE - THIS ROLE IS INTERNAL ONLY We are looking for a Scientific Associate to join our team of experienced scientists and assist with all aspects of construct development and characterisation of gene-edited plant material for plant product development. You will carry out essential general molecular biology tasks, such as; the generation and interpretation of gene editing vectors, gene editing analysis, and gene expression data analysis in a timely and accurate manner for our Crop Biotechnology clients, under close supervision and direction from our team of expert scientists. The role requires a strong understanding of molecular biology concepts and an ability and willingness to learn new wet-lab and in-silico techniques and processes. Competency in performing math calculations for molecular biology is critical. The post also requires meeting our internal specifications and standards to provide a high-quality service to our internal customers. Responsibilities Strict adherence to rigorous instructions, either verbally directed or from workflows and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Where relevant and agreed with the line manager, authoring and revision of SOPs and ownership of some Molecular Biology processes (such as; specific Banana and/or Rice pipelines) Maintaining strong QC and assurance practices, including traceable laboratory records and databases. Supporting maintenance of relevant laboratory stocks. Programming and supervision of liquid handlers for automated and semi-automated processes. Freeze-drying of plant material. Independently performing key molecular biology tasks such as nucleic acid extraction and QC from different types of tissue, PCR/qPCR assay design, next generation/Sanger sequencing, vector design and assembly At the discretion of the line manager, supporting key genotyping, gene expression and cloning tasks. With the support of the line manager, formally reporting relevant scientific findings and technical updates to our stakeholders in a clear, precise, and concise manner. Experimental planning and technical troubleshooting of their own work before lab activities and review by the line manager. With the support of the line manager, training of colleagues and new joiners on established processes and pipelines. Requirements Core Competencies Enthusiasm for expanding technical skills, learn new wet-lab and in silico techniques and processes and a genuine interest in Tropic's research. A hands-on mindset and an excellent team player with professional, effective communication. Strong attention to detail and excellent organization. Goal-orientated time management. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while consistently maintaining a professional attitude. Proven ability to follow protocols and maintain detailed records to a high standard. An aptitude for thinking critically and troubleshooting relevant technical issues An aptitude for multitasking, prioritizing their own tasks and working independently while maintaining accurate time management and high standards. Ability to demonstrate subject-matter knowledge in relation to Molecular Biology techniques and relevant technologies. Technical Competencies Msc, or equivalent, in Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics or a related scientific field and at least 1-year Molecular Biology experience in a professional environment. Strong knowledge of nucleic acid isolation, QC and amplification methods Strong cloning knowledge for plasmid assembly and QC methods General knowledge of qPCR and gene expression analysis (such as relative expression) Proficient with the use of Molecular Biology software and online tools. General knowledge of bacteria transformation methods General knowledge of general sequencing methods. General understanding of gene maps, their annotation and navigation. General experimental design planning and troubleshooting of Molecular Biology applications (such as PCR/qPCR amplification, next generation/Sanger sequencing, plasmid assembly). Basic knowledge of best practices for experiment and assay design. Strong competency to perform mathematics calculations for molecular biology.