Research Assistant Labs - Fungarium Sequencing Project
Research Assistant Labs - Fungarium Sequencing Project
The Labs Research Assistant will deliver RBG Kew’s mission by providing R&D support in the molecular lab as part of a major programme to sequence 20,000 fungi and lichen specimens held by RBG Kew’s fungarium and the Natural History Museum (NHM). Over a 4-year period, the project will adopt a mixed approach of whole genome sequencing and barcoding techniques. Containing more than 1.25 million specimens including 50,000 type specimens of worldwide origin, Kew’s fungarium is home to the largest and most complete fungal collection in the world, with many specimens being only available at Kew.
The Labs Research Assistant will be responsible for carrying out specialist lab techniques as well as contributing to lab training and output dissemination. The Research Assistant will provide support in R&D work and will contribute with molecular data from fungal collections to support DNA sequencing within the Fungarium Sequencing project.
More details
We are seeking candidates with experience in molecular lab work, in particular high throughput sequencing and genomics techniques (e.g., library prep). Knowledge of UK Health and Safety regulations is essential. Experience working with fungi, lab R&D and aDNA, bioinformatics and statistics will be a plus. You will have a degree, or a relevant equivalent qualification, in a science discipline.
We have 4 available posts running until 31st March 2026
Please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
The salary for this position is £32,900 - £34,703 per annum (pro rata), depending on skills and experience [Band C]
Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking “Apply for this job”.
We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
No agencies please.