The Sainsbury Laboratory | Horticultural Technician (part-time)

Plant immunity research at the single-cell and spatial resolution

We are looking for a part-time Horticultural Technician in the Nobori Group at The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) to support our research team by managing the cultivation of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. Initially, this role will focus on supporting the team by maintaining plant growth, carefully handling seeds, monitoring plant health, and ensuring precise experimental conditions.

This position offers the opportunity for the successful candidate to gain experience and potentially transition into a more responsible, full-time role overseeing broader plant cultivation activities within our lab. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented and enthusiastic about contributing to high-quality scientific research.

This will initially be offered as a 1-year contract.

About the Nobori Lab

Our newly established lab (opened mid-2024) focuses on understanding the molecular and spatiotemporal characteristics of cells comprising the plant holobiont (the host plant and its associated microbes). We develop and integrate new genomics and imaging technologies to uncover how plant immune states emerge and how they contribute to plant health under diverse conditions. With three postdocs, two research associates, and two predoctoral researchers already on board, we offer a dynamic environment where you can help shape lab culture and receive close mentorship from both the Principal Investigator and experienced team members.

Lab website: www.tatsuyanobori.com

Key Responsibilities:

Plant cultivation and management:

Maintain plant growth in sterile agar plates, controlled environment chambers, and greenhouses.
Coordinate soil preparation, potting, and plant maintenance with the horticultural team.
Sow seeds from various Arabidopsis genetic lines and ensure accurate labelling for traceability.
Follow precise watering schedules and perform routine plant care.

Experimental and technical support:

Assist with genotyping and phenotyping, including tissue sampling, growth measurements, imaging, and screening seeds using microscopy.
Apply specific treatments (biological or chemical) according to research protocols.
Conduct genetic crosses by pollinating small flowers accurately and carefully.

Seed harvest and inventory management:

Harvest and store seeds in clearly labelled containers for short- and long-term use.
Maintain digital records in Excel to manage complex seed inventories.

Growth facility and lab operations:

Manage lab supply inventory and handle procurement.
Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of growth chambers and lab spaces.
Inspect plants regularly and implement pest management strategies.

Qualifications and Skills:

Required:

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Botany, Plant Science, Horticulture, or a related field.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for data organization.
Strong attention to detail and precision.
Good organizational and time-management abilities.
Proven ability to follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Effective communication and teamwork skills.
Reliable and responsible approach to work.

Preferred:

Experience working with Arabidopsis in research (training provided if necessary).
Basic understanding of Mendelian genetics.
Familiarity with controlled growth chamber environments.
Experience with digital seed inventory management (e.g., LIMS).
Experience in growing plants on sterile agar plates.
Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management principles.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 25 lbs (e.g., trays of watered plants).
Comfortable working in varying environmental conditions (warm, humid, cool).
Good hand-eye coordination for precise tasks like pollination and handling small seeds.
Adherence to institutional safety protocols, including using personal protective equipment.

Appointment Details

Contract: Initially offered as a 1-year position, 50% Part-time.
Salary: TSL Grade 3, Spine Point 11, at £23,881 per annum. (actual salary £11,940)

About The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL)

TSL is an independent research institute renowned for world-leading plant health research for a sustainable future – reducing crop losses through fundamental scientific discoveries in molecular plant-microbe interactions. Located in Norwich in the county of Norfolk, one of the most beautiful and popular counties in the UK, TSL is a wonderful place to work and study.

We offer:

30 days of annual leave
A generous pension scheme
Professional development opportunities
A vibrant campus environment with cultural and recreational activities
A supportive, diverse, and inclusive workplace

Application Process

If you would like to discuss the vacancy before applying, please contact the HR Department on: HR@TSL.ac.uk

To apply, click the 'Apply Now' button on this page and submit the following:

CV (max. 2 pages)
Cover letter (max. 1 page) outlining your motivation and suitability for the role
Contact details for 2–3 referees

Please quote the reference code TN2025-02 in your application.

Closing Date : 27th July 2025