We have an exciting new opportunity for a Scientific Technician to work in our Science Field Operations (SFO) team based at our site near Okehampton in Devon. The North Wyke site has a focus on grassland systems within Rothamsted Research which is the UK’s primary institute for agricultural sciences sponsored by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). The estate at North Wyke is sited on a 350ha working beef and sheep farm, roughly 70ha of which is under scientific management. The Science Field Operations team delivers a service to Rothamsted scientists and incorporates a variety of skillsets including the management of small plot experiments, the maintenance of environmental sensors networks and the delivery of large animal (ruminant) experiments. Members of the team must be multi-skilled, but everyone brings a core strength.
The successful candidate will support the diverse range of activities performed by the SFO team and duties will include:
- The preparation and maintenance of experimental field sites and equipment.
- Stock handling (cattle and sheep) involved in grazing and feeding trials.
- The management and maintenance of networks of environmental sensors and associated data capture.
- The collection and processing of samples for analysis.
- Accurate data recording, processing, quality control and archiving.
You may hold a degree in Agriculture / Science subject or an A level in a science subject and have a good knowledge of UK agriculture and the environment with a focus on grassland and forage based systems. In addition, you will have a genuine commitment to research and delivering a more sustainable agriculture for the future. You will be physically fit and willing to work outdoors in all weather and be self-motivated, able to work alone and as part of a multidisciplinary team and possess excellent problem solving skills.
