Cereal Geneticist (Maternity Cover – 12 months)
Location: Ickleton, near Cambridge/Saffron Walden (UK)
Deadline for applications: 31 August 2026
We are offering a 1 year fixed term role developing our trait discovery and marker-assisted selection support to our global cereal breeding programmes. The role combines practical laboratory work in a high throughput genotyping laboratory, and research into the genetic control of key traits in wheat and barley. Based at our site in Ickleton, UK, the role will interact with experts in cereal genotyping, bioinformatics, pathology, and breeding. This role provides an opportunity for a recent graduate to gain unparalleled experience in the field of marker-assisted selection in plant breeding.
Your main responsibilities
- Conducting genotyping projects for breeding programmes within a high-throughput laboratory. Including: taking leaf and seed samples, DNA extraction, and KASP analysis.
- Using internal databases to ensure high quality data delivery.
- Research into the genetic control of traits in wheat and barley.
- Conducting marker-trait association experiments to translate research findings into marker-assisted selection breeding approaches.
- Utilising internal bioinformatics platform to assist with trait discovery efforts.
- Ensuring that all research results are documented.
- Identification of targets for internal research with Cereal Genomics and Research Manager, breeders, and other researchers and breeding support staff.
Your main skills
- Understanding of plant breeding and modern technologies in plant breeding.
- Experience of DNA genotyping technologies.
- Quantitative genetics: Genetic mapping, QTL analysis, GWAS.
- Organised approach to work, with efficient time management and flexibility.
- Attention to detail with good record keeping skills.
- Follows prescribed procedures and works in a safe manner.
- Encourages a culture of health and safety.
- Degree, or preferably MSc, in a relevant subject
- Must have right to work in the UK, we are unable to offer Visa sponsorship for this role
What we can offer you
- Full time permanent position - 37 hours a week
- Competitive salary up to £30,000-£34,000 pa (depending on experience)
- Minimum 25 days annual leave
- Private health care Incentive scheme
- Generous company pension
- Employee assistance programme
- Active employee training program for professional development
- Please note that no VISA sponsorship is offered with this position.
About RAGT
RAGT is a French breeding company based in Rodez near Toulouse with a breeding and research site, and successful commercial business in the UK. The company has a multi-crop portfolio and leading position in cereal varieties in the European market. RAGT are European leaders in cereals and protein rich species, varietal innovation is at the heart of our business to support and develop sustainability in agriculture.
Pay: £30,000.00-£34,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Free flu jabs
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
- Private medical insurance
- Sick pay
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
